PIKEVILLE, Ky.— The Montreat women's soccer team traveled to Kentucky for an Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) match against the University of Pikeville Bears Saturday evening. The Cavs secured their third straight conference win with a decisive 2-1 victory over the Bears. With the win, the Cavaliers' record now stands at 3-3 (3-1 AAC).
The first half of the game was fiercely competitive, with both teams trying to keep the other from scoring. Despite facing six corner kicks from the Bears, Montreat managed to avoid any potential harm and had more shots than its opponent. Throughout the rest of the period, the Cavs maintained their dominance, but neither team broke the deadlock.
The Bears (2-4-2, 1-1-2 AAC) began the second half much like they did the first, testing the defensive abilities of the visitors; however, the Cavaliers withstood the pressure and surged forward themselves. Just 13 minutes into the second half,
Sam Aalbue scored for the Cavaliers to give them a lead of 1-0. As the Bears fought back, they scored a goal to tie the game 1-1. Despite the obstacles, Montreat persevered with its fight as upperclassman
Sydney Jordan scored a goal in the 74th minute, giving the Cavs a 2-1 edge.
Thanks to the Johnson City native's goal and stout defense in the second period, the Cavaliers were able to see out their one-goal win for their third conference victory of the season. The Cavs led in shots 20-8, and 11-7 in shots on goal, thanks to the second half improvements. Both teams tied in corner kicks (7-7), and
Logan White finished the match with six total saves.
"That was an excellent road win for us," head coach
Kristin Eggert mentioned. "Our captains Sydney and Sam have led well all season both on and off the field, so it was great to see their experience get us on the scoreboard and close out the game."
Women's soccer returns to action next Wednesday when it hosts Reinhardt University. Kickoff is slated to begin at 4:30 p.m. in Black Mountain, N.C.