Clemson, S.C. - Senior goalkeeper Laura Serafino's five saves on 24 shots was not enough as The Citadel Women's Soccer team dropped their season-opener against Clemson on Monday in a defensive bout. The game marked the first meeting between the two schools in program history.
The Tigers came out firing, landing an impressive 15 shots in the first half of Monday's game at historic Riggs Field in Clemson, S.C. Clemson's senior defender Heather Marik netted a 20-yard shot in the top corner of the goal in the 17th minute of the game on a cross-pass from Maddy Elder.
The Bulldogs recorded just four shots in each half of Monday's game, including two shots on goal from the defending Southern Conference Freshman and Player of the Year, Mariana Garcia who played all 90 minutes.
"Clemson moves the ball well, but I thought that the team figured it out as the game went on," said Head Coach Bob Winch
The Bulldogs settled in after the early goal to record a great game defensively, allowing no goals on just nine shots in the second half. The Bulldogs had a few scoring chances to even the match late, but were unable to net one.
"We gave ourselves a chance to tie as we had the last kick on the ball, which is all you can ask for, I'm very happy the girls battled out for 90 minutes," added Winch.
The Citadel will look for redemption on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 4 p.m.as they return home to compete against Winthrop University on WLI Field in the home opener.