Charleston, W. Va.- The Golden Eagles took the field for their 2022 season opener against the Great Midwest Preseason favorites and reining Great Midwest regular season and tournament champions, the Walsh Cavaliers.
 

The Basics:

Location: Charleston, W.Va

Score: UC 4, Walsh 26

Records: UC (0-1), Walsh (1-0)


How it Happened:

With the help of their focused and experienced returners (6 of whom were all-conference team members for the 2021 season), the Cavaliers took the lead early in the first quarter.  After 5 unanswered goals, the Eagles offense used a Walsh turnover to their advantage, and with the first shot of her collegiate career, Freshman, Hannah Calvert, put the first point on the board for the Golden Eagles.  Led by Great Midwest Offensive player of the year, The Cavaliers continued their offensive attack scoring 11 goals in the first quarter. 

In the second quarter, the Eagles defense adjusted to increase the pressure, holding the Cavaliers attackers to 5 goals with 3 big saves by Goalie, Georgia Ryan.  After capitalizing on Cavalier foul, the Charleston offense pushed ahead leading to a Golden Eagle goal by Freshman, Sydney Verlinghieri. 

Sophomore, Tess Yuhas, took control on the draw to start the Eagles' second half efforts.  After the Cavaliers scored their first goal of the second half, the Eagles immediately answered back with a strong offensive possession and a goal by Freshman, Sophia Conzone, the Eagles continued to improve upon their 1^st quarter effort allowing only 6 goals in the 3^rd quarter for the Cavaliers.

In the final quarter, the Charleston's offense applied more pressure to the Cavalier defense.  Senior, Kayleigh Burns was able to break through to score the Eagles 4^th and final goal of the game.  The Eagle's defense continued to improve, holding the Cavaliers to 4 goals in the final quarter of the match.              

Up Next:

The Charleston Eagles hit the road for two away games this weekend.  They face the Mountain Lions of Mars Hill University on Sunday, February 27^th at 2 p.m. Then, on Monday, February 28th at 2 p.m., they face the North Greenville Crusaders of Tigersville, South Carolina.