FLORENCE, Ala. -- The University of North Alabama women's soccer team built a 4-0 lead over the first 57 minutes and then endured a 30-minute lightning delay before recording the school's first-ever win as an NCAA Division I institution, 5-1 over Alabama State at the Bill Jones Athletic Complex.

UNA, 1-0, took charge of the match early with a goal just five minutes in from Haley Yarber off an assist from Kylie Huey. Just 15 seconds later Shelby Wall scored unassisted to make it 2-0.

At the 6:59 mark, Audrey Tanner scored her first goal of the season on an assist from Tay Cavett and Wall made it 4-0 off an assist from Huey with 14:15 gone in the first half.

The game remained 4-0 with just over 33 minutes left in the match when it was stopped due to lightning.

When the match resumed, UNA made it 5-0 as Madeline Guillen scored off a long pass from Margarida Sousa.

Alabama State avoided the shutout as Birgit Rijinders scored at 77:05 off an assist from Kayla Tillman.

UNA out-shot the Hornets 28 to five.

North Alabama is now 5-0 all-time against Alabama State.

The Lions host Alabama A&M Sunday at 1:00 p.m.


A crowd of 426 was on hand for UNA's soccer season opener


Kelsey Jones


Margarida Sousa


Kylie Huey


Haley Yarber scored UNA's first goal on the Division I level.