WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Carolina University Women's Soccer returned to the pitch Saturday evening looking to break into the win column as the Bruins welcomed Randolph College to Truist Sports Park for Senior Night.
Before kickoff, Carolina University recognized five seniors for their contributions to the program: Laurel Collins, Alona Locklear, Destini Wilson, Ashley Sanchez, and Selah Hampton.
Despite generating several quality opportunities throughout the night, the Bruins were unable to find the back of the net as Randolph earned a 2-0 victory. The result moved Carolina to 0-2-3 on the season, while Randolph improved to 4-0-2.
Randolph struck early, taking a 1-0 advantage in the fourth minute when Bailey Richardson scored off an assist from Holly Bermingham. Carolina responded by creating opportunities of its own, including a pair of shots on goal from Kelsey Brown and another attempt from Peyton Battilla. However, Randolph goalkeeper Kacie Walker kept the Bruins off the scoreboard. Madison Booker added Randolph's second goal in the 28th minute to send Carolina into halftime trailing 2-0.
The Bruins continued to battle after the break and controlled much of the attacking pressure. Carolina finished the match with a 16-12 advantage in total shots and put seven attempts on goal compared to four for Randolph. The Bruins also held Randolph scoreless throughout the entire second half.
Carolina produced several late opportunities to cut into the deficit. Emma Fuerbacher forced a save in the 58th minute before Battilla put another attempt on frame in the 69th. In the closing minutes, the Bruins generated multiple chances, including attempts from Emily Avila, McKenna Voncannon and Peyton Battilla, but were unable to break through.
Brown and Battilla each placed two shots on goal to lead the Bruins, while Avila and Voncannon each finished with three total shots. Locklear made two saves during her 45 minutes in goal, while Waleska Gonzalez played the second half and helped keep Randolph off the scoreboard.
Head Coach Boo Tesh praised his team's effort while recognizing the importance of Senior Night.
"Tonight was about honoring our seniors and everything they have given to this program. We wanted to send them off with a win, and while we didn't get the result we wanted, I thought our group continued to fight and create opportunities throughout the match. We have to keep working, stay together and find a way to turn those chances into goals. I'm proud of our seniors and thankful for everything they have done for Carolina University."
The Bruins will look to regroup quickly as they return to action on Wednesday, September 23, when they take on Bluefield State University at 6 p.m.
