SPARTANBURG, S.C. - The Gardner-Webb University women's soccer team put up a valiant effort on Saturday night at USC Upstate, but saw its season come to a close with a narrow 2-1 road defeat

Chasing a win and a possible spot in the Big South Tournament, with Runnin' Bulldogs got off to a dream start. After just 16 seconds, junior defender Alva Jonsson kissed a long distance effort off the post and across the line, giving GWU a shock 1-nil lead. The goal goes in the books as one of the fastest in program history.

With a lead, the Runnin' Bulldogs turned attention to the defense and for much of the first 20 minutes, kept the Spartans at bay. It wouldn't be until the 19th minute that Upstate drew level, connecting on a corner that would be headed on the far post, just trickling over the line. With that, the match was tied at 1-1.

The home side grabbed the lead just before halftime, with a rocket from the edge of the area finding the back of the net. Despite a strong effort on both sides, USC Upstate held a 2-1 lead over the Runnin' Bulldogs at halftime.

Despite Upstate dominating the ball and the chances, Gardner-Webb weren't without their own. The Runnin' Bulldogs forced a handful of saves after halftime, but were unable to find an equalizer. The Spartans also increased the pressure on sophomore goalkeeper Stephanie Liu, but the GWU shot-stopper stood tall with 10 saves in the contest, the majority after halftime to keep the Runnin' Bulldogs in the game.

One last chance for the Red and Black went missing in the 85th minute, as the 'Dawgs well 2-1 on the road, bringing an end to the 2024 season.

Among the leaders for Gardner-Webb include Liu with 10 saves, senior midfielder Carina Leal and senior defender Julianna Jatkola with two shots each, and senior forward Livi Tanzer with a shot on target.