Whitney Veazey

A UNA player takes a shot on goal.

Women’s soccer sneaked past Troy in a highly competitive match on Aug. 28. The final score was 2-1.

The team was led by Captain Alice Bussey and Senior Olivia Heinert. They both earned goals to rally the Lady Lions in the second half of the game after a 0-1 deficit at halftime. Bussey earned hers in the 51st minute, and Heinert earned hers in the 80th minute. 

The Lady Lions won with six fewer shots on goal as Troy had 17 compared to UNA’s 11.

Madison Vukas, UNA’s graduate goalie, had 13 saves in the game. This led to a new career high and school record at the Division I level compared to 10 in the season opener against ETSU.

Troy took the lead early in the game as Jiselle Daniels sank the back of the net to take the early lead before halftime. From there, however, it was a dominant defensive showing on the Lions’ end. 

The team put pressure on Troy’s offensive attack throughout the game, which led to zero breathing room for the Trojans’ offensive scheme. 

The team’s offense roared to life in the second half to tie the game. In the final 10 minutes, the Lady Lions found a way to secure a Thursday night and overall huge win over an in-state rival.

The women’s soccer team returns to the pitch next week against Southeast Missouri on Sunday, Aug. 31, at 1 p.m. They will return to Cox Creek Park against Alabama State on Sep. 4 at 7 p.m.