PINE BLUFF, Ark. (August 27, 2023) – The North Alabama soccer team used a pair of goals to earn their first win of the season on Sunday, defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff 2-0 on the road.

"The ladies came out and played a full 90 minute composed game today," said Lion head coach Chris Walker, "We played in tough conditions on a pitch that was hard to move the ball—I think we dominated play from start to finish." 

North Alabama struck early thanks to a goal from freshman forward Abby Thornton. Thornton caught a cross from senior Alice Bussey and put it in the back of the net to give the Lions their first lead of the season. 

UNA held a heavy advantage in shots throughout the match, including an 8-2 edge at the half. 
 
A second half goal from Belmont Abbey transfer Goose Andrews extended the Lion lead. The second goal of the game came in the 59th minute of the match on a cross from freshman midfielder Giada Aldini.

North Alabama tallied season highs with 15 shots and five shots on goal. The Lions have now earned 19 corners this season compared to their opponents' eight.
 
Lion goalkeeper Adriana Wright stopped three shots en route to her first shutout of the season.

UNA defender Briana Eads played all 90 minutes, joining Wright as the only North Alabama players to have played every minute so far this season. 
 
The Lions have now allowed just three goals in four games so far this season, tied for the second-fewest in the Atlantic Sun.

North Alabama improves to 1-2-1 on the season, while the Golden Lions fall to 2-2-0
 
Up next, North Alabama travels to Bowling Green, Kentucky to take on Western Kentucky on Friday, September 1 at 6 p.m. The Lions return home on Sunday, September 3 to take on Alcorn State at the Bill Jones Athletic Complex.
 
For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.