AIKEN, S.C. – The University of South Carolina Aiken women's soccer team scored a pair of second-half goals en route to a 2-1 victory over Belmont Abbey Tuesday evening.

The Pacers are now 1-2 on the season while the Crusaders fall to 0-3.

Mary Cecil was up to the challenge in the early going, turning away a pair of shots in the first 20 minutes of action. The USC Aiken defense was stellar, blocking a pair of attempts in the 28^th minute of action.

The Crusaders struck with a goal in the 32^nd minute of play off a cross for a 1-0 advantage. However, head coach Tina Murphy's team had an outstanding opportunity on a free kick a minute later. Tashiana Kwatowski put forth a tremendous shot, but it sailed high of the frame. Cecil turned away another attempt on a break-away, helping keep the score the same at the break.

Just moments into the second half, Marianne Ross ripped a shot from 30 yards out. It rocketed toward the frame, but it hit the crossbar.

At the 56:54 mark, a foul on the Crusaders in the box allowed Murphy's squad to take a penalty kick. Kwatowski calmly walked up to the ball and tucked it in the lower right corner, knotting the score at 1-1. Moments later, Kwatowski took a free kick from 40 yards out near the sideline. She went far post with the ball and Baylea Payne headed home the ball for a 2-1 advantage.

The Crusaders tried to get the equalizer, but Murphy's defense was up to the task. Time after time, the Pacers kept the visitors at bay, blocking shots and not allowing them to get a good look.

For the match, USC Aiken took 10 shots, four of which were on frame. The home team registered four corner kicks to just a pair by Belmont Abbey.

Cecil continued to be strong between the pipes, stopping five attempts while playing all 90 minutes.

The Pacers return to action Saturday when they host Albany State at 5 p.m. Live stats and video will be available at PacerSports.com.