Box Score Pikeville, Ky. – August 23, 2025 – Carolina University Women's Soccer opened its 2025 season under the lights in Pikeville, Kentucky, battling hard but ultimately falling 3-0 to the University of Pikeville on Saturday evening.
The Bears wasted little time putting pressure on the Bruins' defense. In the 9th minute, Pikeville's Rebekah Christopher broke through to score the first goal of the season, giving the home side early momentum. Carolina settled into the match and created a handful of looks, including a well-struck effort from Alexa Anderson that forced a save from Pikeville keeper Nevaeh Brown.
Carolina goalkeeper Laurel Collins kept the Bruins within striking distance throughout the first half, making several diving stops to deny the Bears' attack. But just before halftime, Pikeville doubled its lead when Charlene Lofqvist finished a cross to make it 2-0 heading into the break.
The Bruins came out aggressive in the second half, pressing forward and testing the Bears' back line. McKenna VonCannon nearly pulled one back with a shot on target in the 47th minute, but Brown stood firm between the posts. Moments later, Pikeville extended its advantage when Sara Ritter converted in the 51st minute, stretching the lead to 3-0.
Despite being unable to find the back of the net, Carolina showed bright spots in the attack. Anderson and VonCannon combined for four shots on goal, while sophomore forward Natalie Puskar added another look from the wing. Collins finished the night with seven saves on 10 shots faced, anchoring the defense in her 90 minutes of action.
For a young Carolina side, the opener provided valuable experience and flashes of potential. The Bruins will look to build on the positives as they continue their season-opening road swing.
From Coach Boo Tesh
"It is not the start we wanted but we saw glimpses of things to build on. We are really young and there will be some growing pains we have to work through and improve on. We will look to improve as a team and get ready for our matchup against Spartanburg Methodist on Wednesday.
Up Next
Carolina University returns to action to face Spartanburg Methodist College on Wednesday, Aug. 27 with kickoff at 2 p.m.
