NEED TO KNOW:

Score: Life U 1, GGC 0

Records: Life U, 5-0; GGC, 4-1

MARIETTA, Ga. - The Life U women's soccer team emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle, 1-0, over Georgia Gwinnett on Tuesday evening at Lupo Family Field.

After a big foul in front of the net allowing Life U a penalty kick in the 11' minute, Junior Nellie Pedersen was put to the test and was able to put the ball in the back of the net to give the Running Eagles the victory.

The beginning first half saw Life U generate a greater frequency of chances offensively with a shot advantage of 6-3, but both teams could not find themselves in front of the net. However, in the 11' minute, a GGC foul landed the Running Eagles on the line in front of the Grizzlies' goalie. Pedersen stepped up to the challenge and was able to add the point to the board. 

GGC was not able to add anything on the board going into the break.

The game was a defensive struggle in the second half, with GGC able to get off seven shots, but freshman Justine Candel was able to make huge saves to keep Life U in the lead. The Grizzlies held a 7-2 shot advantage over the Running Eagles in the last 45, but Candel made three saves to keep the 1-0 lead.

The win gives the Running Eagles their fifth win of the season, with four of them being shutouts.

"The girls fought hard tonight. Dug in to get the victory" Coach Meg McGonigle said. "We give GGC a lot of respect and we will look to build again off tonight's performance."

Up next, Life U will host #9 Cumberland at Lupo Family Field on Tuesday September 10 2024 at  5 p.m.

TURNING POINT:

- Pedersen's penalty kick in the 11' minute allowed Life U to lead the rest of the game to give them their fifth win of the season. 

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:

- Candle had an impressive five save game giving the Running Eagles their fourth shutout of the season.