Related: Limestone Holds Off Women's Soccer
MOUNT OLIVE – Despite attempting 14 shots to the hosts' four Wednesday night, the UNC Pembroke women's soccer squad was downed 1-0 for the second time in as many games to start the 2016 season, this time by the Trojans of Mount Olive.
The Braves (0-2) were on the wrong end of the nail biter for the second time in four days, once again firing more shots than the opponent. Mount Olive (2-1) runs its early season winning streak to a modest two games after dropping the season opener.
The 71st minute proved costly for the Black & Gold, as Mount Olive's Hannah Kirk took a through ball from Lauren Mumford into the box, finding the back of the net on her first touch.
"I want to give a lot of credit to Mount Olive," head coach
Lars Andersson said. "They were outplayed in every facet of the game and in all statistical categories except the one that mattered.
"But they were very disciplined and defended well once they scored to earn the win tonight."
UNCP freshman
Gina Ryan played all 90 minutes in goal, conceding just the one tally. The Trojans fired four shots her way, three on goal.
The Braves' offensive attack tormented the Trojan defense, putting eight shots on goal, six in the second half, and attempting 11 corner kicks. Mount Olive employed two keepers, one for each 45-minute period, seeing both hold the Black & Gold scoreless.
The final two minutes of play were especially stressful for Trojan fans, as the UNCP attack had ample opportunities in the last 120 seconds, including a corner kick and a free kick from 15 yards outside the box.
"I am shocked, disappointed and in disbelief that we lost another 1-0 game," Andersson said. "It is my responsibility to get the team ready and I take full responsibility of where we're at. But we have to start looking inward and asking some tough questions."
Courtney Crump led the Braves with three shots, while four others fired two shots toward goal.
Carly Rochelle was the lone Brave with multiple shots on goal, forcing the Trojan goalkeeper to make two saves.
Andersson is confident the slow start will not be a sign of things to come for the Black & Gold.
"I believe in this team and we will continue to work hard and turn this thing around," he said.
The Black & Gold will look to right the ship Sept. 14 with yet another road contest at Pfeiffer (1-1). The match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start at N.E. Lefko Field in Misenheimer.
