GEORGETOWN - A goal from senior Mady Akers in the first half along with a terrific defensive effort gave the Southwestern University women's soccer team their first win of the season, defeating Austin College 1-0 on Friday evening at Varsity Field.
Though the shots showed a 12-7 advantage for the 'Roos, Southwestern was the aggressor for most of the match, maintaining possession and doing a wonderful job getting into their attack, especially early in the contest. The two teams were even in corners at three a piece while Southwestern came away with six saves.
The Pirates controlled possession throughout much of the first half, constantly pushing the Austin College defensive line back and getting good looks. It resulted in a loose ball coming back to Akers as she ripped a beautiful 20 yard strike towards the near side post and into the back of the net for the 1-0 advantage.
Southwestern took that lead into the break and turned to a different approach in the second half, relying on their defense to take them home and give them the win. Akers, along with senior Malorie Lara, sophomore Mallory Harkins, and freshman Alli Moff were outstanding defensively to preserve the shutout and get the win.
Sophomore Mary Cardone picked up three saves in the first half while senior Kylie Hunt added three more saves in the second half to earn the combined shutout.
For Southwestern, a team that could never be doubted for their effort and tenacity, the win could not have felt better as the clock struck zero as they move to 1-9 overall and 1-6 in SCAC play.
Akers and freshman Annie Ewton led the attack with two shots a piece while the Pirates also got great efforts in the attack from junior Kierstyn Luckock, freshman Alexis Fortes, and freshman Jamie Vargas.
The Pirates will look to carry that momentum into Sunday as they continue conference play with 12 PM matchup against Centenary (LA).
We spoke with senior Mady Akers after @SUPiratesWSOC 1-0 win over Austin College! #HereWeGoBucs pic.twitter.com/NiNxphEkvu
— Southwestern Pirates (@SUPirates) October 7, 2017