Salem, Va. – Freshman Makayla Hargrove struck the game-winning goal in the 72nd minute for the University of Lynchburg women's soccer team as the Hornets defeated Denison 1-0 in game one of the Roanoke Invitational.

The Hornets outshot the Big Red 11-10 in the evenly-matched affair, though Lynchburg placed eight of its opportunities on frame. 

Despite allowing six shots in the first half, Lynchburg's back line prevented any threats until Denison's first chance in the 22nd minute. Madelyn Boyce fired the Hornets' only two shots of the opening half in the first 16 minutes, while Denison maintained 58% of the possession in the first 45.

Out of the halftime huddle, both squads traded blows until Hargrove secured her first goal as a Hornet. Coming off the bench in her debut, Hargrove received a pass from Morgan Oliver beyond the 18-yard box and centered the ball before looping a shot inside the top-right corner.

Each team fielded chances in the dying minutes of the contest, including a low strike by Morgan Oliver that was bobbled by the keeper. With neither squad capitalizing, the Hornet defense remained stout and solidified the club's first shutout victory of the season.

Lynchburg keeper Kate Shepherd played all 90 minutes and made four saves in the winning effort. The season opener marked Shepherd's sixth start as a Hornet after she started five contests between the pipes in 2024.

Sammie Rogstad and Lune DenHartog also submitted 90 minutes as underclassman starters on the backline for the Hornets. Last season, Lynchburg held its opponent scoreless in 11 contests.

The women's soccer team returns to action on Sunday, Aug. 31 at 11:00 a.m. in its second match of the Roanoke Invitational as the Hornets face Rhodes College. The game will be live-streamed on FloSports; click on the women's soccer schedule to find links for live stats and streaming.

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--LYN--