After a scoreless first half, the Terrapin women’s soccer team exploded for three goals in its season opener against Army on Friday night.
Adjusting to a new lineup and season beginning nerves, the Terps were unable to get their offense rolling. That all ended when Ashley Grove jump-started the offense with a goal in the 55th minute, as the Terps when on to defeat the defending Patriot League champions, 3-0.
From the beginning the Terps took control of the game and displayed a strong defense. The Black Knights were limited to only one shot on goal, while the Terps had twelve. Maryland goalkeeper Mary Casey registered her fourth career shutout performance.
A minute after Grove ended the tie, sophomore Jasmyne Spencer scored her first career goal to put the Terps up by two. Spencer, who scored in both the Terps’ preseason matches, was assisted by Casey and midfielder Caitlin McDowell.
The last goal of the evening was scored by Caitlin Mooney, who was playing in her first career game. The Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year scored in the 74th minute and was unassisted. Mooney, who did not start the game, was one of four freshman to get playing time in the game.
The Terps are now 3-0-2 in season openers under coach Brian Pensky. The team will stay in New York to face Fordham on Sunday at 1pm.
Stay tuned for more women’s soccer updates throughout the weekend and the rest of the season.
Chris Eckard is The Diamondback’s womens soccer beat reporter. He can be reached at eckarddbk@gmail.com
Tags: Army