PEMBROKE – Freshman Rae-Shawna Campbell earned her first career hat trick within the first 25 minutes of action, as the Lady Braves defeated Peach Belt Conference rival North Georgia, 3-2, on Saturday at Varsity Grounds.

Campbell posted two goals within the first three minutes of the game, giving UNCP an early 2-0 advantage over North Georgia. The Saints outshot the Lady Braves 21-9; including 13 shots on goal. UNCP keeper Britney Bennett played a perfect 90:00 in the net for the Black and Gold, collecting 11 saves. 

"The team came out with great energy today and got an early lead. They showed tremendous heart and courage as we battled to hang on to a one goal lead in the second half," said head UNCP coach Lars Andersson. "I am very proud of the players and look forward to the remainder of a very challenging regular season schedule."

In the second minute of action, Campbell, on assists from Julia Nytorp and Amalia Arvidsson, shot the ball past the North Georgia keeper into the bottom right corner. Less than a minute later, Brittany Padilla passed the ball to Campbell, as she once again got the ball past the keeper in the bottom right corner. In the 21st minute of the first half, Kayla Croom put the Saints on the board on an assist from Kelly Penston. The Lady Braves answered just three minutes later, as Campbell notched her third goal of the first half, with an assist from Sherrie Gessin. 

Caroline Wallace scored the lone goal of the second half for the Saints in the 62nd minute of play, on a header after a corner kick from Abby Trevino. 

"This was a very important win for us. North Georgia is a talented and very well coached team. Every win in the PBC has huge implications on the overall league standings," said Andersson. "Our season has been a real roller coaster, but we have worked very hard at keeping the team focused and positive."

The Lady Braves will be back in action on Tuesday for a regional matchup with Wingate (9-1-1) at the WU Soccer Complex. First kick is scheduled for 5 p.m.