The top-seeded Bob Jones University women's soccer team opened its week at the NCCAA National Championship with a commanding 4-0 victory over #5 Grace Christian University on Monday, controlling every phase of play at Austin-Tindall Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

From the opening whistle, the Bruins settled in and began peppering shots on the Tigers net. The Bruins broke through in the 21st minute when Francesca Aurednik buried a strike to put the Bruins on top. They wasted no time, and just three minutes later, Lydia Howell doubled the lead with a rocket from outside the box to notch her first collegiate goal. 

The Bruins kept the pressure high after halftime, and it paid off again in the 59th minute. Aurednik netted her second goal of the day off a feed from Shannon Miller, giving BJU full control at 3-0. In the 84th minute, Elli Cummings capped off the scoring with the team's fourth goal of the game.

While the offense shined, recording 35 shots through 90 minutes of play, the Bruins defense also delivered as they held Grace Christian without a shot, and goalkeepers Margaret Cummings and Caroline Roland combined for the shutout without being called on to make a save.

Several players shared their thoughts of today's performance. 

"This was a great start to the week, and I am proud of the team for staying consistent with our playing style, possessing well, and creating many solid chances," said Shannon Miller. "Intensity and effort was really good, and I think we responded to the style of the game really well by playing with high quality and an offensive mindset"

Julia Hartzler commented on the game saying, "each player worked hard to possess the ball and create moments to penetrate. It was encouraging to see each player adapt and work hard on both sides of the ball. I'm confident we will continue to build on it as we prepare for Wednesday."

"We settled into the game well, keeping possession and wearing our opponent down," said Abby Arrowood. "We are continuing to find our rhythm together as a team, and we will continue to work hard to make our way to the National Championship match one game at a time!"

"The team came out with a lot of energy, poise, and played an awesome game on both sides of the ball," said Coach Chris Carmichael following the game. "I couldn't be more proud of how well they executed our game plan and adapted to a Grace team that sat back and packed their defending third. Our players patiently broke down their defense and were able to penetrate and create a number of goal scoring opportunities. We are getting much more comfortable in the attacking third where they are switching into a higher gear to sustain pressure around the 18."

He continued saying, "we need to get some good recovery today and tomorrow and get ready for a tough Trinity College of Jacksonville team. God continues to bless our team, and we are incredibly thankful for his hand on our team and helping our injured players to heal."

With the win, the Bruins start their time at the national tournament 1-0 and look carry momentum into their next match on Wednesday against Trinity College of Jacksonville.