SMC Picks Up First Win of the Season
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Carolina (N.C.) (0-2-0) | 0 | 1 | 1 |
|
Spartanburg Methodist (1-1-1) | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Spartanburg, S.C. – A goal in each half lifted the Spartanburg Methodist College women's soccer team to a 2-1 victory over Carolina University on Wednesday afternoon.
The Pioneers (1-1-1) made a winner of head coach Debbie Pekel, who earned her first victory at the helm of SMC.
The Bruins (0-2-2) spoiled the shutout bid with a goal in the 79th minute from Natalie Puksar.
SMC struck early when freshman Kamari Johnson scored her first collegiate goal in the fourth minute, slipping a shot into the lower left corner. Behind a steady back line anchored by senior captain C.J. Hawkins and sophomore goalkeeper Ava Wilson, the Pioneers held Carolina off the scoreboard in the first half. Wilson recorded five saves in the opening 45 minutes.
Carrying a 1-0 lead into the second half, the Pioneers doubled their advantage in the 63rd minute when Caroline Taylor found the back of the net. Taylor nearly added another in the 74th minute, but her shot sailed high. Carolina broke through in the 79th minute to cut the deficit, but SMC held on for the win.
The Pioneers return to action Saturday, August 30, hosting Brewton-Parker at 3:30 p.m. at Nash Soccer Field.
