ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. – Milligan University's women's soccer team put on an offensive showcase Tuesday afternoon, defeating Bryan College 6-1 at Anglin Field in a dominant display that saw the Buffaloes out shoot their opponents 34-4.
The Buffaloes (3-2-2, 2-1-1) wasted little time asserting their dominance, with Natalie Roper opening the scoring in the 25th minute off an assist from Katelyn Penner. Just over a minute later, Destini Martinez doubled the lead with help from Roper, giving Milligan a commanding 2-0 advantage at the break.
Milligan goalkeeper Emily Robinson faced minimal pressure in the first half, making no saves as Bryan (0-5-1, 0-3-0) failed to register a shot attempt in the opening 45 minutes.
The second half saw more of the same, with Halle Steele extending Milligan's lead to 3-0 just four minutes after the restart. Bryan managed to break through briefly when Cammie Ruehling scored unassisted in the 52nd minute, providing a bright spot for the Lions.
However, Milligan quickly regained control of the match. Diane Maillis scored her first goal of the season in the 80th minute, followed by Alara Tyrer two minutes later with another assist from the productive Penner. Bianca Vacirca capped off the scoring in the 87th minute with help from Lauren Hawkley.
Penner was instrumental in Milligan's attack, contributing two assists while also registering five shots and three shots on goal. Steele led the team with seven shots, four of which were on target, including her sixth goal of the season.
Bryan goalkeeper Ava Hooks faced a barrage of shots throughout the contest, making 11 saves in 89 minutes of action before being briefly replaced by Katie Finch. Despite the heavy workload, Hooks kept the scoreline from being even more lopsided with several strong stops.
The Lady Lions will look to bounce back, as they take on the Lady Eagles of Reinhardt University on Saturday at home.