Rock Hill, SC: The Winthrop women’s soccer team jumped out to an early two-goal lead Thursday night but could not hold on, falling 4-2 to Western Carolina in the season opener.
Winthrop took control early as Lindsay Sheets scored in the 16th minute off an assist from Lila Bowers. The Eagles doubled their advantage in the 28th minute when Monssi Avila-Gutierrez headed home a pass from Sophia Balliet.
Western Carolina answered just two minutes later, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Samantha Vibberts then converted a penalty kick in the final minute of the first half to send the teams into halftime tied 2-2.
Winthrop applied pressure early in the second half, including a shot by Bowers in the 46th minute. The Eagles also generated several opportunities from corner kicks, but Western Carolina goalkeeper Amara Yetka made several key saves to keep the game even.
Western Carolina eventually took the lead in the 77th minute when Gabriela Vatrano scored an unassisted goal. Vatrano struck again in the 84th minute to complete the scoring and secure the victory.
Freshmen Kinsie Kulig, Bowers, Aubrey Earman and Mia Ruffalo each made their first career starts for the Eagles. Ruffalo recorded four saves in goal.
Avila-Gutierrez scored her 12th career goal, while Sheets recorded her third.
Winthrop will return home Sunday for its home opener against UT-Chattanooga. The match is scheduled for 5 p.m. and will stream on ESPN+.
Story courtesy of Winthrop Athletics.
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