BLUFFTON – All the frustration that built over the first 89 minutes of the Peach Belt contest with USC Aiken evaporated when
Mari Kalvatn scored her 12
th career game-winning goal, creating an incredible finish to their 1-0 win over the USC Aiken Pacers Wednesday afternoon.
"It was truly emotional, how we had to come through and pull out that victory," said Kalvatn. "It wasn't our prettiest game, but to pull out that win, is huge for us."
USCB picked up several late scoring opportunities but couldn't convert. With just under a minute remaining, Aiken's Kenna Souder turned the ball over midfield to
Kristin Beltestad. The junior midfielder dribbled for a few feet before finding fellow countrywoman, Kalvatn streaking down the left side of the 18-yard box. who then made two touches before sending the ball past the Pacers goalkeeper for the game-winner.
"What an amazing way to win a game," said coach
Jay Harris. "A special memory that all involved will remember forever."
Over the course of the first 15 minutes, the Pacers controlled much of the possession, but could not muster many shots.
Graysen Asher thwarted back-to-back opportunities midway through the period and came up big late in the half, punching out a free kick from 33 yards out. USCB created chances off of corner kicks and openings in Aiken's defense with
Kennedy Harris drilling one off the crossbar from 40 yards out and
Molly Kerr following with a blistering liner that Kaydence Moore knocked over the bar.
Beaufort only outshot USCA 16-14 overall, but the Sand Sharks had 12 of its 16 shots on goal and Asher, picking up her first collegiate win and shutout, recorded seven saves in the victory.
"It wasn't our best performance, but we were resolute in our defensive display and in our belief in our ability going forward. It took us awhile, but our quality showed in the moment that mattered most.
USCB returns to the pitch on Saturday against Allen. Kickoff for the non-conference contest is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Fin Land Field. Prior to kickoff, USCB Women's Soccer will honor a Sand Shark legend, Alexa Muffley Holt, who tragically lost her battle to cancer last year.
