Runnin' Bulldogs Fall To Winthrop, 2-1, in Big South Opener Saturday Evening
October 03, 2010 | Women's Soccer
ROCK HILL, S.C. - The Gardner-Webb women's soccer team allowed two goals within the first 25 minutes of action to allow Winthrop to win, 2-1, Saturday evening in the Runnin' Bulldogs' Big South Conference opener.
Winthrop (1-7-1, 1-0 BSC) got on the board early in the first half, as junior midfielder Rachel Webster was able to score in the seventh minute of action to give the Eagles the early lead, putting a shot past diving junior goalkeeper Chelsea Hearne, attempting to make the save.
The Eagles found the back of the net again in the 25th minute of action as junior defender Courtney Durbin was able to put a shot past Hearne following a crossing pass from senior forward Tricia Vensel to give Winthrop the 2-0 advantage.
Gardner-Webb (3-6-2, 0-1 BSC) attacked throughout the first half, taking a total of 10 shots, with three being on goal. Sophomore midfielder Taylor Napoli, reshirt sophomore midfielder Sonja Kienzler and junior forward Stephanie Benshoof each put a shot on goal, yet were unable to produce any offense headed into halftime.
The Runnin' Bulldogs were able to get on the board in the 51st minute of play as senior midfielder Melissa Battista was able to find the back of the net, putting a shot past sophomore goalkeeper Sarah Schippers from 35 yards out. The goal was the first of the season for the Orlando, Fla. native.
During the 64th minute of action, freshman forward Meagan Reynolds had perhaps the best opportunity to tie the match, sending a shot toward the goal that just missed, hitting the crossbar. The ball came back to her and she attempted another shot, but a Winthrop defender blocked it, preventing the tying goal.
Freshman midfielder Megan Loftin had another opportunity to send the match into overtime, taking a shot in the final minute of play, yet was unable to get the ball past Schippers, who sealed the victory for the Eagles.
The Runnin' Bulldogs return to action on Saturday, October 9th as they travel to High Point. The match is set to begin at 7:00 PM at Vert Stadium.
| Box Score: Winthrop 2, Gardner-Webb 1 |
