The Malone University women's soccer team defeated West Liberty University on Friday night by a score of 1-0. Danielle Lung broke through in the scoring column in the 84th minute to secure the victory.
 
The Pioneers start 2019 with a record of 3-0, their first 3-0 start since 2009 when the team won their first four matches. The Hilltoppers of West Liberty continue to skid, falling to 0-3.
 
The Pioneers went on the attack right from the opening whistle, taking three shots within the first eight minutes of play. West Liberty's defense did not give in and held off the offensive threat.
 
In the 20th minute, goalkeeper Haleigh Seman made a phenomenal save on a penalty kick that kept the game tied.
 
The scoreboard remained empty to halftime and into much of the second half. In the 54th minute, Amanda Kinsey hit the post with a shot during another offense onslaught by the Pioneers, but again the Hilltopper defense stood tall.
 
Malone finally willed their way to a goal in the 84th minute when Lindsey Soltisz delivered a precision pass inside the 18-yard box to Danielle Lung. Lung converted on her third goal in as many games in 2019.
 
As a team, Malone took 16 shots, with 10 shots on goal. The defense allowed only eight shots from the Hilltoppers, four on goal.
 
Goalkeeper Haleigh Seman made four saves in goal and recorded her second win of the season.
 
Freshman Payton Beech took three shots on the day. Shots also came from Madeline Ault, Sally Culig, Kirsten Hilty, Amanda Kinsey, Alexa Langenfeld, Keeley Malley and Natalie Martorana.
 
The Pioneers have over a week off before playing rivals Walsh University at home for the team's Great Midwest Athletic Conference opener on Saturday, September 21 at 4 pm.