USC Aiken Falls At Belmont Abbey

BELMONT, N.C. – The University of South Carolina Aiken women's soccer team lost a 2-0 decision at Belmont Abbey Monday afternoon in a non-conference contest.

The Pacers are now 2-1 on the season while the Crusaders improve to 2-0.

Head coach Hilary George's squad registered its first shot in the 11^th minute off the boot of Casey Rish. However, the attempt was blocked.

At the 22:25 mark, Sarah Drury blasted an attempt toward the frame that was stopped by Belmont Abbey's keeper Kaitlyn Paul between the pipes. Sarah Moore fired a shot a minute later, but it sailed high.

The contest would stay scoreless for the remainder of the first half as the USC Aiken defense was up to the challenge. The group limited the home team's quality shots, with the lone attempt on target being stopped by Karin Cadwalalder.

In the first minute of the second period, the Crusaders got on the scoreboard with a header for what turned out to be the game-winning tally. Belmont Abbey tacked on another goal in the 58^th minute for a 2-0 edge.

Despite trailing, USC Aiken continued to push forward. At the 80:07 mark, Kimberly Jergenson rocketed an attempt that was just wide of the goal. Catherine McHale posted a shot on frame in the 88^th minute, but Paul was up for the challenge, keeping George's team off the board.

For the game, USC Aiken was out-shot 16-7. Cadwalader registered six saves compared to three for the home team. Five of her stops came in the final 45 minutes of action.

George's team was unable to record a corner kick in the match while the Crusaders tallied four.

The Pacers return to action Saturday when they play at Lenoir-Rhyne. The match is slated for 5 p.m.