TYLER, Texas — The East Central University soccer team continued its season-opening road trip Wednesday night with a non-conference matchup against the University of Texas at Tyler, battling the Patriots in a tough contest that ended in a 9-3 setback.
UT Tyler came out strong, scoring twice within the opening six minutes before adding three more goals to take a 5-0 lead midway through the first half. The Patriots continued to find the back of the net, taking a 7-0 advantage into halftime.
The Tigers came out of the break with a strong response, getting on the scoreboard for the first time this season just 1:15 into the second half.
Jalynne Campbell found the back of the net off an assist from
Emma Stewart to put ECU on the board.
Just over three minutes later, Campbell set up
Natalia Castaneda for the Tigers' second goal of the night and bringing ECU within five.
UT Tyler added two more goals in the second half before
Estrella Hernandez capped off the scoring for the Tigers in the 89th minute, recording her first goal of the season.
The Patriots finished with a 30-5 advantage in shots, including a 16-4 edge in shots on goal. ECU goalkeeper
Parker Frei recorded seven saves in the match.
ECU soccer will return to Ada for its first home match of the season, hosting Mississippi Christian University at Tiger Soccer Field on Saturday, Sept. 5 at noon.
