ABILENE, Texas— Freshman Mandy Crawford scored her first collegiate goal and added two assists as the Cal Lutheran women's soccer team defeated Mary Hardin-Baylor, 3-2, Friday night at Hardin-Simmons University.
The match was the season opener for both teams. The freshmen dominated the spotlight for Cal Lutheran, led by Crawford as she totaled four points.
She made an impact right away and got the Regals on the board immediately. Junior Alexandra Fagerberg had the ball in the corner and crossed it to Crawford, who received the pass and made a defender miss before scoring the first goal of her career. The goal was scored in the second minute and gave CLU the momentum early.
Mary Hardin-Baylor was eager to answer and did so as they tied the game in the eighth minute. Sophomore Alexa Soto was in the goal for the Regals and made three saves in the first half. The Regals had their chances to score and take the lead with seven shots in the half, but came up empty, and the score was even at the horn
The Regals were rolling at the start of the second and great ball movement led to two quick goals. Freshman Janelle Gutierrez scored her first collegiate goal in the 51st minute and junior Sam Cornejo added a goal of her own just eight minutes later. Crawford was there for the assist on both as CLU took a 3-1 lead.
Cal Lutheran's defense stopped up in the second half and held the Cru offense scoreless for almost 40 minutes. Mary Hardin-Baylor finally broke through in the 84th minute. It was a little too late as the Regals won the game 3-2.
Getting their first collegiate action in the Violet and Gold uniforms was Natalia Valladares, Crawford, Izzy Martinez, Isabella Veljacic, Darya Rasoli, Kylie Garcia, Olyvia Hinck and Gutierrez.
CLU continues the season in Texas and has a tough test ahead of them as they take on No. 11 Hardin-Simmons, Saturday, at 5:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
Box Score: CLU 3, MHB 2
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Release by Ryan Jorgenson, Sports Information Director