EDINBURG, TEXAS – The University of the Incarnate Word women's soccer team finished their weekend at the UTRVG tournament with a controlled victory against first time rival, South Carolina State by a score of 1-0 in overtime for the second consecutive match.  This win secured the Cardinals as champions of the tournament.

The Cardinals (2-0) and the Bulldogs (1-1) played the contest in 100 degree weather. UIW started pressuring the S.C. State team by taking 13 shots in the first half while the challengers could not find a way to attack the UIW net. The entire offense tried to put one on frame with seven shots on goal.  Junior Marina Bermea (Odessa/Odessa HS) and sophomore Karey Tilman (San Antonio/Alamo Heights HS) each fired three shots a piece.

UIW continued to face a resolute South Carolina State team in both halves. In the second half, the Cardinals fired another 13 shots, but could not put one by Bulldog goalkeeper Hailey Austin.  A relentless Cardinals flock continued to work for a goal until Freshman Emani Stewart (Victorville, CA/ Hesperia HS) closed the match with the game winning goal less than four minutes into overtime.  She received an assist from fellow Bermea who pushed a pass through the defense that Stewart was able to run down and convert with her left foot.

"I'm thrilled to start the season 2-0," said UIW head coach Anne Felts.  "We had two different challenges this weekend and it is nice to see the team find a way to win.  We would have liked to score more goals with our chances and finish the games in regulation."

Overall, the Cardinals attempted 27 shots while the Bulldogs managed is single try.  UIW earned three corner kicks while the Bulldogs had zero.  Austin finished with 14 saves while Karly Brightwell (Houston/Elkins HS) and Heather Kowalik (Boerne/Champion HS) combined on a second straight shutout for the Cardinals.  UIW had 13 different players attempt at least one shot while Bermea and Emily Halal (Katy/Cinco Ranch HS) each fired four shots.

"South Carolina State had a solid game plan and they stuck to it," Felts said.  "I'm proud of our kids for not getting frustrated and pressing the whole game.  Emani had a lot of composure to finish for her first goal."

Incarnate Word will return home to play against the University of North Texas on Friday at 7:00 PM and then play another game against Prairie View A&M University at 12:00 PM on Sunday.  The Cardinals have now matched their season win total from the 2014 season.
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