The defending NCCAA DII national champions picked up where they left off with a 3-1 victory over Southern Wesleyan University in the opening preseason match of the 2016 season.
"We looked really sharp tonight," Coach Chris Carmichael said. "I am beyond impressed with the energy and effort from our team. Our possession rate was good and we had good combination play which allowed us to consistently get into the attacking third. Our depth really helped us tonight as everyone contributed throughout the match."
The two teams played three 30-minute periods in the exhibition. As the first period of play began, the Bruins were able to control the midfield well and get the ball up to the attacking line. It didn't take long for the team to break into the scoring column as Mimi Lozano danced around defenders and buried the shot in the back of the net to make it 1-0. The Warriors would respond with a well-placed shot of their own as they evened the score 1-1 at the end of the first period of play.
In the second 30-minute period, the Bruins continued to possess well and stand strong defensively. The team executed smooth transitions from defense to offense which generated several open looks on frame. The Bruins climbed back on top after Caralise Roach sent a cross into the middle and newcomer Kayla Romeiser finished with a beautiful header to make it 2-1. While the offense was creating scoring opportunities, the defense for the Bruins continued to keep the Warriors at bay. Jessica Baun made a beautiful save on a breakaway to deny the equalizer. As the whistle sounded, the Bruins held a 2-1 edge with just one period left to play.
Lauren Foushee helped to seal the deal in the third period as she scored off a cross from Kaitlyn Hummel. Even with a 3-1 lead, the Bruins continued to work the ball up the field for scoring opportunities. Defensively, Christiana Young made several saves in the final period to help the team hang on for a 3-1 victory over Southern Wesleyan University.
"It was a great start," Coach Carmichael said. "We seem to be healthy, fit and we played with a lot of energy. We played in control for most of the match which is what I was wanting to see. This is a good start for us to build on as we move ahead."
The Bruins will play their second exhibition of the preseason on August 23 as they welcome Anderson University to Greenville. Before that match, the team will host their annual Alumni scrimmage as they welcome back former players of the women's soccer program. The two teams will take the field on August 20 at 4 p.m. at Alumni Stadium.
