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RICHMOND, Ky. – The Eastern Kentucky University soccer team kicked off Homecoming Weekend with a 2-0 shutout of in-state and Ohio Valley Conference rival Murray State on Friday afternoon at EKU Soccer Field.

The Colonels used a first-half goal by senior Kristan Paynter and a second-half insurance score by freshman Cassie Smith to improve to 3-10-2 (2-3-1 OVC) on the year. The loss drops Murray State to 4-9-1 (1-6-0 OVC).

"This was as close to a complete performance as we have come so far this season," head coach Melissa Barnes said following the convincing victory. "Our team battled for 90 minutes. We were mobile and composed in the attack and we were disciplined and stingy on defense. We have to continue to improve, though, in preparation for a tough Austin Peay team."

EKU got on the board in the 30th minute when sophomore Amani Thomas crossed a ball to Paynter, who lofted a shot past Murray State goalkeeper Savannah Haberman for the first goal of the game. It was Paynter's team-leading third score of the season.

The Colonel defense fended off several Murray State chances at an equalizer in the second half – including a header by Tasha Merritt that was mere inches above going in the net. Finally, in the 86th minute, Smith ended the suspense by putting the game away with an insurance score. Smith's goal tied Paynter for the team lead with three, and it was also the product of a Thomas assist.

EKU outshot Murray State, 16-13, on the afternoon, and also attempted three more corner kicks than the Racers. Senior Nikki Donnelly led all players in the game with five shots.

The EKU backline of seniors Katie Collar and Lauren Fant, junior Paige Larkin and freshman Mikalya Brillon went the distance in the shutout.

Sophomore goalkeeper Erika Wolfer returned to action following a two-game absence and helped blank the Racers by making five saves.

EKU now must face second-place Austin Peay (9-2-2, 4-1-1 OVC) and explosive goal scorer Tatiana Ariza (13 goals on the season). The Colonels and the Lady Govs are set to get underway on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at EKU Soccer Field.