Fontbonne's defense leads Griffins to victory

The Fontbonne University women's soccer team scored a goal in each half last night to defeat Greenville College 2-0 in a critical St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) match. The Griffins improved to 5-8 overall and 3-1 in the SLIAC.

Fontbonne took the game to Greenville throughout most of the first half and were rewarded for their pressure in the 17th minute. Fontbonne senior Julia Conroy banged home a shot off a loose ball scramble following a corner kick to give the Griffins a 1-0 lead. Fontbonne had a couple other chances to extend their lead in the first half but failed to capitalize. The Griffins defense was stingy in the first half allowing Greenville just one shot.

In the second half, Fontbonne weathered an early aggressive surge from Greenville but continued to be dangerous on counterattacks. The Griffins again were rewarded for their offensive pressure in the 58th minute on a goal from junior Erica Kaiping. Freshman Lyndsey Godier recorded the assist on Kaiping's goal.

Fontbonne's defense, anchored by junior Ava Johnson and freshman Paige Pfankuch, helped keep the Panthers off the scoredboard. Senior goalkeeper Kaniz Abbas recorded four saves to pickup the victory and shutout.

Fontbonne's win snapped a four-game losing streak to Greenville. The Griffins will return to the pitch on Saturday in Louisville, KY against Spalding University at 11 am.