Salisbury, Md. – The University of Lynchburg women's soccer team scored twice in the first 16 minutes en route to a 3-0 victory over Salisbury at Sea Gull Soccer Stadium on Saturday.
The Hornets outshot the Sea Gulls 17-5 and earned 14 corners, including 10 in the first half. In addition, each of Lynchburg's three goals was assisted.
In the 14th minute, Ava Olsen opened the scoring with a low-rolling strike from a corner kick entry. Morgan Oliver lofted the ball inside the box, while Lauren Orner's header ricocheted off the right post. Olsen fielded the rebound and netted the shot for her first goal of the 2026 season.
Just under three minutes later, the Hornets doubled their lead. Following strong pressure on defense; Mackenzie Cooper regained possession in the attacking third. The first-year lofted a cross to Makayla Hargrove in the box, who lost her defender to secure Lynchburg's second goal of the contest.
Despite the Hornets' 11 shot attempts in the first half, the scoreline remained 2-0 entering the second half. Lynchburg held Salisbury to just one shot in the first 36 minutes of play.
In the 58th minute, Leigha Gronau recorded the first goal of her Lynchburg career on a breakaway opportunity. Ally Hopkins forced the attackers forward after she gained possession, and receiving the through ball, Gronau laced the shot past Salisbury's keeper.Â
Beyond Gronau's goal, the connection marked Hopkins' first collegiate assist.
The Hornets used their stellar defense to maintain a clean sheet, marking the second of the season. Julia Salo and Kylie Cass split the goalkeeping duties, which included two saves for Salo on five combined shots faced.
With the win, Lynchburg secured a 3-0 overall record and outscored opponents 9-1 to begin the season. The Hornets tallied multiple goals in each of their three victories.
Lynchburg will return to the pitch on Sunday, Sept. 12 at 3:00 p.m. to face St. Mary's (Md.) in a neutral-site affair at Salisbury University.
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