DENTON, TX– The East Central University soccer team kicked off the 2024 season with a bang, securing a 2-0 shutout victory on the road at Texas Woman's University, marking the first for head coach Alyssa Taramona.
 
"Phenomenal effort for the team to bring home a 2-0 win against a strong TWU team," Taramona stated. "The girls were resilient, coachable, and fought hard until the final whistle. It is only the beginning for this team and I cannot wait to see how we will continue to grow as a team."
 
Entering the season with renewed determination, the Tigers set the tone early and successfully neutralized TWU's offensive attacks.
 
Despite the Pioneers taking more shots (17), shots on goal (six), and corner kicks (seven), the Tigers were more efficient and capitalized on their opportunities, putting up nine shots, six on goal, and landing two goals in the process for the win.
 
After a scoreless first half, ECU broke the deadlock at the 63:32 mark when Brooklyn Meisner connected to the back of the net off the assist from Emily Cavazos for the 1-0 lead. Less than three minutes later, Haleigh Goodson added an insurance goal, finishing off a pass from Paige Jones for her first goal in an orange and black uniform.
 
TWU had several opportunities with offensive breakaways, but goalkeeper Madison Mayhall's impressive performance was key to the Tigers' victory. In her collegiate debut, Mayhall made seven crucial saves to prevent TWU from getting on the scoreboard.
 
The Tigers will continue their road trip with their next matchup against the University of Texas at Tyler on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 1 pm.