BEL AIR, Md. - Despite scoring in the opening minute, the Fighting Owls fell to Harcum (1-0), 3-2 in their opening match of the 2012 season for both teams.

Harcum striker Addis Meleku led the way for the Bears netting a hat trick. She scored the equalizer just after the half hour mark in spectacular fashion, lobbing a bouncing ball over goal keeper Maggie Shifflett while fending off the challenge of a defender. She scored twice in the second half including a breakaway goal to give the Bears a two-goal lead, and ultimately the game winner with less than 15 minutes remaining.

Freshman midfielder Christie Brown scored both goals for the Fighting Owls and had a strong game in her career debut. Brown scored her first career goal in the opening minute of the game on a shot inside the 18-yard box that hit a defender and trickled into the net.

Despite the strong start, Harford (0-1) was unable to mount a threat on goal consistently. Brown was able to cut it to a one-goal deficit with less than 10 minutes remaining on a shot from inside the box but the Fighting Owls were unable to complete the comeback.

Harford will look to get their first victory of the season when they take on CCBC Essex on Friday, Sept. 7 at Harford Stadium at 5 PM.