PHOENIX – The University of the Incarnate Word women's soccer team won Thursday's matchup with Grand Canyon (GCU) 1-0 at GCU Stadium. 

Coming into the match, GCU had allowed just four goals all year and only one in the previous five matches. They were also tied for 19th in the country in goals against average (.444). 

Both teams exchanged early opportunities and could not find the back of the net in the first 20 minutes. The match was physical, and in the 23rd minute Sierra Wannamaker drew a foul on the Lopes' goalkeeper DeAira Jackson in the box and drew a penalty kick. Junior Sinead Duffy stepped up and buried the shot into the left side of the goal, putting the Cardinals up 1-0.  

Grand Canyon was on the attack the rest of the match, but UIW's backline held strong and were anchored by the strong play of goalkeeper Erica Defferding, who finished with 10 saves on 27 shots.  

This was the final tune-up for the Cardinals before they start Southland play on Friday, September 27th against Southeastern Louisiana at 7 p.m. at Gayle & Tom Benson Stadium.

FOLLOW ALONG 
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on X @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics. 
 
Follow the team on X @UIWWomensSoccer and on Instagram @uiwwsoccer. 

--UIW CARDINALS--