HARDEEVILLE, S.C. – The USCB women's soccer team added another layer to the best season in the program's brief history, as the Sand Sharks went on the road Saturday to defeat rival SCAD Savannah 1-0 in the Sun Conference Tournament quarterfinal for their first-ever postseason victory.

The Sand Sharks (10-7-2) turned in a dominant defensive effort by limiting the Bees to five shots – three on goal – and Karen Pimentel converted a penalty kick in the 74th minute to propel USCB to double-digit victories for the first time since the program's inception in 2011. 

"What a great win for our program and this team," USCB coach Ed Heberling said. "We have shown great fight all season. Hats off to SCAD, as well, because they made it incredibly difficult for us." 

Both defenses controlled much of the match, but the Sand Sharks were able to step up the pressure with nine shots in the second half. They finally broke through when MJ Orduna slid a pass through to create a one-on-one chance for Brooke Newman, who was hauled down in the penalty area. 

Pimentel stepped up and beat SCAD goalkeeper Ande Eich to her right for her third goal of the season – all of which have come on penalties. 

USCB's stout defense took care of the rest, ensuring the Bees didn't have any quality opportunities to earn the equalizer. Goalkeeper Moa Johansson needed to make only three saves but showed great composure coming off her line to thwart a handful of potential scoring chances, and center backs Elin Sturesson and Bridgette Noonan continued their stellar play. 

"Our defense continues to shine and play extremely well," Heberling said. "They deserve a lot of the credit tonight for their efforts." 

After the final whistle, the Sand Sharks spent a short time celebrating with a sizable group of fans and former players in attendance before turning their attention to top-seeded Keiser. USCB will make the trip to West Palm Beach, Fla., to face the Seahawks for the second time this season at 1 p.m. Tuesday, hoping to avenge a 3-0 defeat on Oct. 17 and advance to the Sun Conference championship game for the first time.

"I am very proud of this team and thankful for all the alumnae and fans who came out to support us tonight," Heberling said. "This win is historic, but we cannot be satisfied with this result. We have a big challenge ahead Tuesday." 

BOJANGLES' PLAYER OF THE GAME
Moa Johansson
Freshman • Goalkeeper • Ahus, Sweden

Johansson needed to make only three saves to notch her fifth shutout of the season, but she showed great composure in goal and directing the defense. Her distribution and clearances also helped USCB control possession and limit the Bees' chances.