EDINBURG, Texas – The Nicholls State University women's soccer team defeated the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 2-1 in Edinburg on Thursday night. The Colonels improved to 5-4-6 overall and 3-1-3 in Southland Conference play which marks the most victories in league action since 2017.
Nicholls took control of the game early as freshman forward
Jezlyn Nelson scored her fifth goal of the season in the 20th minute.
The Colonels held their lead for roughly 45 minutes until UTRGV's Sienna Gillespie connected with Isabella Burtini to tie the contest. Nicholls senior midfielder
Alyssa Wheeler scored the game-winning goal in the 79th minute in rare fashion, hooking a corner kick past the goalkeeper to secure the Colonels' fifth victory of the season. Wheeler's seventh goal is the most by a Colonel in a single season since 2019 (Blaire Laiche).
The Red & Gray defense was anchored by goalkeeper
Aislinn Wright who had five saves. Additionally, her fifth win of the season is the most by a Colonel goalkeeper since 2011 (Molly Mersereau).
The Colonels were outshot 18-10 but matched the Vaqueros' six shots on target. Wheeler led the attack with two on target, while
Angelina Rispone,
Kaylie Harris,
Gentry Watrous and Nelson had one apiece. Nicholls offense was efficient as they controlled possession and generated seven corner kicks while UTRGV had four.
UP NEXT
Nicholls will have 10 days off before taking on Northwestern State in Nathitoches on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1 p.m.
