Women's soccer wins first game in home opener against Wildcats

After a loss to William and Mary in Williamsburg on Wednesday, the University of Richmond's women's soccer team won its first game of the season during its home opener against Villanova University.

The Spiders scored three first-half goals, defeating Villanova 3-1 Friday night in Robins Stadium.

Villanova gained an early lead when sophomore midfielder Caitlin Forte netted a goal within the first minute of play. Richmond recomposed quickly, and sophomore Violet Miller's unsassisted goal in the 26th minute brought the score to a tie. It was Miller's first career goal.

Miller said that after the surprising goal by Villanova, the Spiders knew they had to pick up the momentum. The atmosphere at the stadium had been inspiring to the team, she said.

"We were all so excited to have our first game at home," Miller said. "We had so much energy, and the atmosphere was great from our team and all the fans that came out."

Just nine minutes later, freshman Dana Bernetich flicked in a deflection off a corner kick, giving the Spiders a 2-1 lead. Senior Natalie LeClair then dribbled up the field with ease and swiftly struck the ball into the upper left corner of the goal.

LeClair and Kristen Lybert had three shots each. The team's goals were a season-high.

Goalkeeper Andrea Young had six saves throughout the game. Bernetich and Emily Parisi acted as an impressive defensive duo against Villanova's offense.

The Spiders improve to 1-4-0 and will play in the Virginia Tournament next weekend in Charlottesville. The team hopes to win against James Madison on Friday and George Mason on Sunday, Miller said.

Contact reporter Jenna Robinson at jenna.robinson@richmond.edu