The Marywood Women’s Soccer team hosted the Muhlenberg College Mules to start its season. The Pacers dominated possession early in the match, being denied by Mules’ goalkeeper Megan Stairs. After earning a corner kick in the 18th minute, captain and Pacers’ all-time assists leader Josephine Sorce was tasked with sending in the kick. She ripped a rope into the box and found senior forward Riley Mulherin, who knocked it past Stairs to give the Pacers the early lead. Mulherin’s goal moved her to fifth all time in Pacers history.

The Mules went on the attack shortly after but Pacers’ keeper Jenna Orr slowed the Muhlenberg attack. The Pacers dominated the remainder of the half but were rejected from extending the lead, as halftime came around.

Marywood was back on the attack early in the second half, as the Pacers pressured the Mules defense but were again stopped from doubling the advantage. Marywood took countless shots but the net remained unharmed, as the Mules defense held stagnant.

In the final 10 minutes, the Mules were in great position to equalize the match, earning four corner kicks. Despite the heavy attack to close the second half, Marywood held onto the shutout, earning a 1-0 victory.

Following the season opening victory, Mulherin spoke about what led to the result.

“Our hard work in the preseason and chemistry,” Mulherin said. “It feels good to win.”

Similarly to Mulherin, Sorce spoke on how she was feeling after starting on the right foot.

“It feels great,” Sorce said. “I know we added about 10 new transfers and freshmen, but our first game looked really good.”

The Pacers return to action Wednesday evening, at Lancaster Bible College.

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