RICHMOND, Ky. - The Eastern Kentucky University women's soccer team opened up United Athletic Conference play with a 3-0 win against Austin Peay.
The Colonels delivered a historic conference opener, posting the largest margin of victory in a conference opener in program history and their most decisive win over longtime rival Austin Peay since a 3-0 victory in 2008.
Peyton Smith stole the show in the win, scoring two goals in her UAC conference play debut. The junior midfielder tied her total career goals in the match, finding the back of the net twice in a three-minute span. Smith's performance marks the first brace of the season for EKU.
Rachel Phifer delivered the final blow in the dominant victory, scoring her second goal of the season in the 89th minute.
Jordan LeVasseur showed why she was named UAC Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year, shutting out the Governors and recording five saves on 9 shots.
The Colonels controlled the game, holding 58 percent of possession and firing 13 shots in the win.
Smith opened the scoring in the 18th minute, pouncing on the rebound of
Avery May's shot and sending it into the back of the net to put the Colonels up 1-0.
Just minutes later,
Ronnie Ariel found Smith in the center of the box, and Smith drove the ball into the upper right corner for her second goal of the match.
Phifer capped the win in the 89th minute, collecting the ball near midfield and driving toward goal. She cut left past a defender before striking a shot into the center of the net.
The Colonels set the pace on opening day of UAC play, leading the conference with three goals.
The Colonels continue their homestand Sunday against West Georgia. The match will stream on ESPN+, with live stats available.
