USCB women’s soccer put together a strong effort in its season opener Saturday, but the Sand Sharks couldn’t find the back of the net in a 1-0 home setback against Truett-McConnell.
Jay Harris’ squad dominated the possession battle in the opening minutes, but the Sand Sharks failed to cash in on a pair of early shots on goal. USCB was handed the momentum in the 30th minute as the Bear goalkeeper was sent off with a red card, giving the home side a one-player advantage. But with just 45 seconds left in the opening half, a Sand Shark was also shown a red to turn the contest into a 10-on-10 battle.
Truett McConnell pushed for the lead in the early minutes of the second half, but freshman USCB keeper Emily Worrell made a stellar save to keep the game scoreless. However, in the 69th minute, Hannah Logue delivered a cross into the penalty area and a clearing attempt from Henriette Harr-Haga went off the Sand Shark keeper and into the net, giving the Bears a 1-0 lead.
USCB had several strong opportunities to answer but couldn’t grab the equalizer. Mari Kalvatn sent a beautiful header to the net off a corner kick in the 84th minute, but the bid grazed the crossbar to keep the Sand Sharks off the board. Truett McConnell defended well in the final minutes of the contest and held on for the narrow victory.
Kristin Beltestad recorded three shots and put two on goal to lead the Sand Shark offense, and Worrell made five saves in net.
USCB (0-1) hosts NCAA Division II Francis Marion on Wednesday.
By Wes Kerr
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