The Bruins defeat the Toccoa Falls College Screaming Eagles 3-0 and are crowned the 2024 South Region Champions!

"The team did a phenomenal job being patient and possessing to open things up," Head Coach Chris Carmichael said. "We have been working on a few things in training that really emerged today and I couldn't ask for a better team to execute our game plan. They played some great football as they have done consistently throughout the season and my hats off to just an amazing and talented group of young ladies."

As expected, the Bruins possessed much of the match, especially in the first half as the Screaming Eagles were trying to contain the Bruins offensive chances. Toccoa's defense held strong until Francesca Peters used her speed to get into the box and scored in the 28th minute making it 1-0. The Bruins were able to contain for most the rest of the half, but couldn't get any shots on the offensive side due to great defense by the Bruins back line of Arrowood, Townsend, and Farr. Just as it looked like the halftime score was going to be 1-0, Lily Davis scored after the ball bounced around the box. This was Davis' second goal in two matches.

The Screaming Eagles came out with more offensive aggression in the second half and played a more balanced half. While the Screaming Eagles were able to get 5 shots in the second half, they weren't able to score due saves by Margaret Cummings and Kali Jackson. The Bruins possessed most the second half as well which led to a goal by Celeste Baladi in the 72nd minute which put it out of reach. The 3-0 lead held until the final whistle and the Bruins became the region champions!

After the match, Francesca Peter acknowledged the importance of the match: "This was such an important match to get us to nationals," she said. "I'm so proud of our team for working so hard and being the first to the ball every time which led to us getting a the big win."

Coach Carmichael recognized the bond of this team: "We have a phenomenal group of players that love each other, love God, and love soccer and their passion for the game comes through every time they step on the pitch," he said.

The Bruins will now head to Kissimmee, Florida to compete in the NCCAA DII National Tournament and will most likely be the one seed. The tournament is November 19-23 and the Bruins will look to defend their national title.