Georgetown, Texas -  The Southwestern Pirates kick off their season with a 10-5 win against the Berry College Vikings. It was a cold night in central Texas but the weather had no effect on the Pirates' ability to shut down the Vikings and make big plays on their offensive end. 

Head Coach Kaitlyn Hafdell was successful in preparing a Pirates' team that only had one available substitute. The Pirates' conditioning was well on display as they were able to pitch two shutout quarters and scored multiple goals in each quarter of the game. The Pirates' never showed fatigue despite their limited numbers and went after the Vikings all night long. 

On the defensive end, Jr. Tessa Lewis ensured the Vikings' goals were few and far between. Lewis denied 10 shots with only five goals allowed for a 66.7 percent save percentage. The Pirates' defenders played tough in front of their goaltender, allowing Lewis to see the ball and make big saves. Lewis also relied on Jr. Caden Laflamme-Szakonyi, who cleared the ball effectively and secured Pirates' possessions. Jr. defender Skye George had two caused turnovers and a full field clear that would eventually lead to a shot and a goal. 

Offensively, the Pirates' were routinely successful in the 7v7. Rarely did the Pirates' set up their offense without getting good opportunities. The team had a combined shooting percentage of 43 percent and constantly put pressure on the Vikings' defense. Sr. Raven Garcia was the most prolific goal scorer with three goals on a night the Pirates' had seven different goal scorers. Not to mention an amazing goal by Jr. Deanna Hames, who shot while falling down, fading away from the cage and Viking defenders draped all over her. There is no doubt the Pirate offense will be difficult to stop if they continue to share the ball as well as they did. 

The Pirates look to continue their momentum when they travel to Conway, Arkansas to take on the Hendrix College Warriors next Saturday, Feb. 26th at 11 AM.