WASHINGTON, D.C. — The College of William & Mary women’s soccer team got their season off to a solid start with a 2-1 road win over American University on Thursday, Aug 19.
The deciding goal came at 78 minutes as senior forward, Caroline Monahan put a shot over the head of American goalkeeper Julia Kota. That goal was an answer to American tying up the score just two minutes prior.
W&M drew first blood in the 29th minute with a penalty kick from junior Kayleigh Shackford after sophomore Elaina Longjohn was tackled from behind.
The Tribe’s defense put up a stout performance, allowing six shots on goal with sophomore goal keeper, Grace Lemley, recording two saves.
The victory in Washington D.C. has helped to settle early season jitters after the exhibition match the Tribe had scheduled against George Mason University on August 14 was rained out.
“With our lone exhibition game being canceled, it was challenging jumping into our first game without a test run,” head coach, Julie Shackford said. “But we were pleased with our ball movement and ability to dictate play as much as we did. We definitely left some chances on the field around the goal but are still working things out with a lot of new players. It was encouraging to see a combination of veterans and newcomers contributing to the win.”
Next up for the team is a road game in Blacksburg as they take on Virginia Tech on Sunday, Aug. 22 at 4 p.m. The Tribe’s home opener is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 26 against Old Dominion University. The match starts at 7 p.m. at Martin Family Stadium at Albert-Daly Field, 221 Ironbound Road.
For the team’s complete 2021 schedule, go to the W&M Women’s Soccer page.
