BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – The Gardner-Webb women's soccer team collected a victory tonight as they shutout Presbyterian in a 2-0 win. After a scoreless first period, the Runnin' Bulldogs netted two goals by way of Bailey Hierholzer and Samuelle Grove.
 
Head coach Mike Varga stated, "I was disappointed with our first half performance, as were the girls. I challenged them at half to be better in many phases of the game and they responded. Presbyterian had us on our heels in the first half and we were fortunate to be level at the half."
 
While the game remained scoreless in the first period, Presbyterian controlled a majority of the possession, applying an abundance of pressure offensively, but was unable to convert on any scoring opportunities.
 
In the 42^nd minute, Jessica Ferguson of Gardner-Webb had a shot on goal but a PC defender made a quality diving effort to keep the score knotted at zero.
 
Bailey Hierholzer opened the scoring as she scored her first goal of the season at the 62:32 mark with a header from inside the box. Erin Shamleffer was credited with the assist, also her first of the season.
 
Four minutes later at the 66:27 mark Samuelle Grove put one in the back of the net for the Runnin' Bulldogs from inside the box two put them up 2-0. Jane Perrin Mayer earned the assist.
 
The Gardner-Webb offense accounted for 10 shots in the match with six on goal. Samuelle Grove was the lone Runnin' Bulldog with multiple shots on goal (2).
 
The Blue Hose countered Gardner-Webb's efforts with 16 shots, while four different PC players took a shot on goal.
 
PC took nine corner kicks in the match while Gardner-Webb took seven.
 
Gardner-Webb goalkeeper was strong in goal tonight as she recorded four saves in her third shutout of the season. In the second period, Brown made a great defensive effort as PC took a lofty shot but Brown was able to punch it away, above the crossbar.
 
PC utilized two goalkeepers tonight as each Abby Jones and Anna Coleman each saw 45 minutes of play.
 
"Now we have control of our own fate in regards to the Big South tournament, so this was a big win for us," Varga continued.
 
Following tonight's match, Gardner-Webb climbs to (4-11-1, 2-4-1 BSC) while PC falls to (3-12, 1-7 BSC). The Runnin' Bulldogs are back in action this Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:00 as they welcome Longwood to town for another Big South Conference matchup.

Saturday will also serve as Senior Day where seniors Jane Perrin Mayer, Irina Briquet, Jessica Ferguson, Annie Ross and Emily Burton will be honored before the match.