Lynden's softball team won its first 18 games last year before it suffered regular season-ending losses to Sedro-Woolley. The Lions won't be starting the same this year. Lynden dropped its season opener 4-3 to Interlake in a non-conference game Saturday, March 9, in Bellevue.

The Lions led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the sixth, but Interlake scored to tie the game then drove in the winning run off Lynden star pitcher Brooke Bonsen with two outs in the bottom of the seventh.

"For an early season game, it was competitive," Lynden coach Steve Petersen said in a phone interview. "They swung the bat really well, and we played solid defense."

Interlake ace Erin Scott held Lynden to four hits, which all came in the fourth inning. Lynden's Trisha Snydar, Tanna Benson, Destinee Matter and Bonsen each hit doubles. Benson, Bonsen and Matter each recorded a RBI with their hits.

Despite Bonsen suffering the loss, Petersen said he was pleased with his No. 1 pitcher's performance.

"She was around the plate, and she was able to hit her spots really well," the Lynden coach said. "It was a bit off a slow track. They got a couple (weak) hits and were able to hit a ball or two."

Both Lynden and Interlake were state tournament teams last season.

The Lions return to action against Nooksack Valley for a non-conference at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 12, at Lynden High School.

INTERLAKE 4, LYNDEN 3

Lynden 000 300 0 - 3 4 3

Interlake 200 001 1 - 4 9 0

WP: Erin Scott. LP: Brooke Bonsen (0-1). Highlights: Trisha Snydar 1-3, 2B; Brooke Bonsen 1-3, RBI; Tanna Benson 1-3, 2B, RBI; Destinee Matter 1-2, RBI.