The Virginia Wesleyan University women's flag football team (4-0) came out swinging Saturday evening, but a strong second-half push by Chowan University proved to be the difference in a 34-13 decision over Virginia Wesleyan.

It didn't take long for the Marlins to make a statement. On their second possession of the game, quarterback Kendall Abercrombie connected on a scoring strike to cap an efficient 54-yard drive, giving Virginia Wesleyan an early spark and tying the game in the opening quarter.

The Marlins' defense showed resilience throughout the first half, highlighted by an interception from Antonia Mohren that set up a prime scoring opportunity. While the offense couldn't convert in that sequence, the takeaway showcased the playmaking ability that kept Virginia Wesleyan within reach.

Coming out of halftime, the Marlins delivered one of their biggest moments of the day. Abercrombie found Mohren again, this time on a 25-yard touchdown connection, to pull Virginia Wesleyan within one point early in the third quarter. The quick-strike drive brought energy to the sideline and momentum back to the Marlins.

Mohren was a standout target throughout the contest, hauling in five receptions for a game-high 117 yards and a touchdown. Abercrombie added 190 passing yards and two scores, continuing to show chemistry with her top playmaker.

Defensively, Bri Robinson led the way with 11 total tackles, while Brianna Caro-Barrios added seven stops and multiple tackles for loss as the Marlins worked to slow a balanced Chowan attack.

Despite the strong effort, Chowan capitalized on key possessions in the second half, scoring 21 fourth-quarter points to pull away late.

Virginia Wesleyan showed flashes of explosiveness on offense and toughness on defense, particularly in the first and third quarters. With continued growth and consistency, the Marlins look to build on those positives heading into their next matchup.