Feb. 27, 2010

(Columbia, Mo) - The University of Missouri women's soccer team kicked off their spring season with a 4-1 victory over Missouri State on Saturday at Faurot Field.

The Tigers wasted little time in their spring debut as they took an early lead in the 11th minute. Junior defender Krista Kruse's pass found redshirt sophomore Brittany Hopkins behind the Lady Bears defense, and Hopkins first time shot was well placed to the left of the Missouri State goalkeeper for the 1-0 advantage.

The Tigers defense protected the lead from there as Missouri struck again off a corner kick from freshman Haley Krentz minutes before halftime. Her service into the box was met by fellow freshman Molly Sylvester who powered a header under the crossbar in the 44th minute of play.

Missouri's offense continued to convert scoring opportunities following the intermission as junior Kari Adam was credited with the Tigers' third goal in the 61st minute. Junior Alysha Bonnick's cross was redirected by Hopkins and glanced off Adam from close range.

The Lady Bears got on the scoreboard just over ten minutes later as junior Sarah Linsin headed in a corner kick in the 72nd minute.

Missouri then added a fourth and final goal in the 83rd minute, once again courtesy of two Tiger freshmen. Stephanie Gilbert found space on the right side of the field and played a cross to Sarah Thune at the backpost whose header sealed the Tigers' 4-1 victory.

Freshman Jessica Gwin made her first career start for Missouri in goal and all 19 Tiger players saw action in the match.

Missouri continues their spring season next weekend as they take on Minnesota at noon on Sunday, March 7th at the Overland Park Soccer Complex in Kansas City.