September 5, 2001

CHARLESTON, S.C. — The University of South Carolina women’s soccer team (0-0-1) opened the 2001 season with a 0-0 tie at the College of Charleston. USC outshot the Cougars 26-10 and dominated most of the match.

“We controlled the majority of play and we had several chances but we just couldn’t finish,” said Head Coach Shelley Smith. “We had good services but I think our scoring chances need to be stronger. Overall we had great defense and our team played hard throughout the game and in overtime. Our team battled and never gave up.”

Midfielder Melissa Hutson had three shots on goal and sophomore Becca Epstein and freshman Sarah Lentz each added two shots on goal. Junior goalkeeper Carolyn Ortega played the entire 120 minutes between the posts without allowing a goal.

“Melissa Hutson and Erica Bowie played a great game in the middle,” said Coach Smith. “They played the entire game and did a good job controlling the play and settling the ball. Our backs also had a solid game. Lydia Bienias, Jessie Uecker, Becky Leeper, and Sarah Lentz all kept the pressure off our goal.”

With the first game behind them, the USC women’s soccer team returns to Columbia for the first home match of the season. USC hosts Davidson at Stone Stadium Tuesday Sept. 4, at 7 p.m.

Source: USCSPORTS.COM