Pioneers Earn 3-2 Win Over Brewton-Parker Behind Second-Half Surge

Spartanburg, SC – The Spartanburg Methodist College women's soccer team capitalized on a second-half man-up advantage, scoring twice on its way to a 3-2 victory over Brewton-Parker Christian University on Saturday afternoon at Nash Soccer Field.

Hot conditions matched the intensity of the non-conference matchup. The teams were tied at 1-1 when BPCU was issued a red card in the 53rd minute, forcing the visitors to play down a player.

SMC (2-1-1) quickly took advantage as substitute Makai Bowen put the Pioneers back on top, finishing a loose ball in front of the net after a well-placed corner kick from Camila Moscoso. The goal restored the lead after SMC had opened the scoring in the 31st minute when Delanie DeHoyos connected with Addie Hawkins to make it 1-0.

BPCU (1-1) equalized in the 35th minute when Marielys Rosales's free-kick strike slipped through the hands of SMC goalkeeper Ava Wilson.

With a 2-1 lead after Bowen's goal, the Pioneers extended the advantage in the 77th minute when Valentina Garzontallied her first career goal, giving SMC a 3-1 cushion. The Barons pulled within 3-2 in the 88th minute, but a determined SMC defense, bolstered by fresh reserves, held firm to secure the win.

The victory capped an intense opening stretch that saw SMC play five matches in 11 days. The Pioneers will now enjoy a brief break before opening Appalachian Athletic Conference play on Saturday, Sept. 6, hosting Milligan University at 2 p.m. The Buffaloes (1-1-1) were picked to finish fourth in the AAC preseason poll.