Sep 6, 2013
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AUBURN, Ala. - The Auburn women's soccer team (1-2-1) defeated the Mercer Bears, 2-0, on Friday night at the Auburn Soccer Complex, giving the team its first win of the 2013 season. Redshirt freshman Alyse Scott earned her first career victory in goal as the Marietta, Ga., native faced six shots, making two saves.
"This is a quality win," said Auburn head coach Karen Hoppa. "Mercer is a very good squad and they came out and gave a lot of effort. They got a big win over Alabama last week, so we knew they were very dangerous, but this is just what the doctor ordered for us."
The two teams played to a scoreless first half with Auburn putting four shots on frame. Auburn controlled possession for much of the half, but was not able to find the net.
"I thought we had a great first half, but we were disappointed we did not get a goal," said Hoppa. "Unlike last week at Samford, I thought we came back out with a lot of composure and energy, and picked it up in the second half."
Auburn junior Tori Ball gave the Tigers their first goal of the game after receiving a pass from freshman Casie Ramsier inside the 18-yard box. Ball's goal was her first of the season and 11th of her career. For Ramsier, it was her second assist on the season.
With 15 minutes remaining in the match, the Tigers doubled its lead after Sophie Simantel headed in a rebound off the post. Freshman Haley Gerken sent in the corner which was met by Kala Faulkner's head, but hit the crossbar. Simantel headed in the rebounded to score her first goal of her career.
The Tigers put 18 shots on goal, a season-high, and held Mercer to six shots. Scott earned her first career shutout with two saves while Mercer's Maggie Cropp took the loss, picking up seven saves along the way.
Samantha Solaru led the Tigers with five shots while Ball and Brooke Ramsier tallied three each.
Auburn will take Saturday off before returning to the field at 2 p.m. CT, Sunday against in-state rival Troy at the Auburn Soccer Complex. Admission is free.
"Troy is going to be a big in-state opponent for us," Hoppa continued. "We don't know Troy very well, but we are excited to see them on Sunday."