Winston-Salem, N.C. – Carolina University Women's Soccer earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw on Friday evening against the University of Rio Grande (Ohio) at Truist Sports Park.

After a scoreless first half, both teams picked up the intensity in the final 45 minutes. Rio Grande struck first in the 77th minute when Morgan Fannin capitalized on an assist from Jitske De Muijnk to put the RedStorm ahead 1-0. Carolina responded just six minutes later, as sophomore forward Peyton Battilla found the back of the net in the 83rd minute off a clever assist from Alondra Ramon to even the score.

The Bruins generated 13 shots compared to Rio Grande's 11, with CU goalkeepers Waleska Gonzalez and Laurel Collins combining for two saves on the evening.

Head Coach Boo Tesh praised his team's resilience after conceding the late goal:
"I was proud of the way our team responded tonight. We stayed composed after going down and found a way to equalize. That kind of fight will carry us forward as we continue to grow together this season."

The draw moves Carolina to 0-2-1 on the young season, while Rio Grande goes to 1-0-1.

Up next, the Bruins will look to build momentum as they host Guilford College on Sunday, August 31. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at Truist Sports Park.