MARIETTA, Ga. — The Life University women's soccer team kept its unbeaten start alive on Saturday afternoon with a 4–2 win over Montreat College at Lupo Family Field, improving to 3–0 on the season.
The Running Eagles came out flying, striking first in the 8th minute as Helen Gutierrez slotted home the opener off a setup from Lilja Bjorg Olafsdottir to make it 1–0. Montreat answered against the run of play in the 31st minute as Rebeca Cruz Manon finished from close range on an assist by Maddie Ellis to pull the Cavaliers level at 1–1.
Life U wasted little time reclaiming control, as Phoenix Parks restored the advantage in the 43rd minute, finishing a lofted pass from Marey Helgadottir. Just before the break, Gutierrez struck again—her second goal of the half—once more assisted by Olafsdottir, sending the Running Eagles into halftime with a 3–1 cushion.
The momentum carried into the second half when Faith Martin added a fourth goal in the 60th minute, converting from a Sara Diaz corner to stretch the lead to 4–1. Montreat managed to trim the deficit in the 86th minute behind a free kick from Sam Aalbue.
Statistically, Life U controlled the match from start to finish, outshooting Montreat 28–7, including a 12–4 edge in shots on goal. The Running Eagles also tallied nine corner kicks to none for the visitors. Gutierrez paced the attack with two goals on eight shots, while Olafsdottir notched two assists. Parks and Martin each added a goal apiece, with Diaz and Helgadottir recording assists.
In goal, Justine Candel made two saves in the second half, anchoring a defense that limited Montreat's chances throughout.
The Running Eagles will look to remain hot as they host Xavier (La.) this upcoming Friday, Sept. 5th.
