Lookout Mountain, GA- Women's Soccer kicked off their season on the road, traveling to Lookout Mountain, GA to face Covenant.
The First Half
The first half started slow for the Pioneers who were able to make plenty of attempts on the attack. Fifth year senior Merion Roach picked up where she left off last season as the team's spark plug showing her quickness on her runs to set a tone of aggression. Both teams showed early season jitters but quickly shrugged it off. Deep into the first half, Transy saw plenty of shots as First Year goalkeeper Sheridan Harrison was put to the flame saving six shots. Harrison would play the entirety of the game, bouncing back after letting in the only goal of the first half, coming in the 41st minute on a penalty, ending the half 0-1.
The Second Half
In the second half Transylvania put the offense in gear as they would rattle off three unopposed goals to complete the comeback. Isabella White made her presence known after a quick rest and subbing in for Roach. White became one of Transy's most utilized players in the 2022 season as she was tied with Roach as the team's leading scorer. Shewould set up the offense assisting Senior Mackenzie Buckler for the Pios, tying goal in the 48th minute. Buckler started 8 out of the 9 games she played in last season coming into today as one of the team's veterans who typically plays defensively, showcasing her all around ability on the pitch.
The second goal of the game would come unassisted by senior Erin Heil in the 54th minute. Heil coming off HCAC Second team nods from the 2022 season, playing all ninety minutes tonight. The Pioneers would wrap up their offensive output and the game, by scoring in the 71st minute. This would be provided by the tandem of sophomore Tara Pund, assisting First Year Lilia Steen to get to a comfortable 3-1 lead.
"It is always great to start the season off with a win," Co-Head Coach Marcus Aldoba said. "In the beginning stages of the match we were a bit rattled through a combination of being on the road, the support from their fans, and the energy provided by their home field. We had some technical errors that we were very fortunate to not concede on. Credit to the team for the three goals in the second half to rally back".
Transylvania set a competitive tone for the season after clear inspiration from the coaches halftime speech. Coach Aldaba has pressed the importance of finishing out games this season and after watching a late mistake in the first half it is apparent he took to the team expressing how effort until the whistle can save you from a deficit.
Up next for the Pioneers is a continuation of the road trip, facing off against Ogelthorpe, Sunday at 1PM.
