Linfield University Athletics

McMINNVILLE, Ore. – Sophia Leiber's second-half goal and a strong defensive performance propelled Linfield women's soccer (1-1-0) to a 1-0 victory over St. Thomas (TX) Sunday at the Linfield Soccer Complex for the Wildcat's first win of the early season.

Linfield fired four shots in the opening half, while the back line held the Celts to just one through 45 minutes. 

After a scoreless opening half, the Wildcats increased the pressure after the break. Linfield generated three shots in the opening four minutes of the second half before Leiber delivered the breakthrough in the 56th minute, scoring her first goal of the season to give the Wildcats a 1-0 advantage.

Linfield controlled much of the action, outshooting St. Thomas 15-6 and holding a 9-0 advantage in corner kicks. 11 of Linfield's 15 shots came in the final 45 minutes of the game. The Wildcats put five shots on goal, with Julia Alvarez accounting for two while Leiber, Lize Rendon and Fia Swanson each added one.

Maddie Funk and the Linfield defense made the one-goal lead stand. Funk recorded two saves while playing all 90 minutes to earn the shutout in her second start of her career as the Wildcats improved to 1-1-0 on the season.

Women's soccer hosts Corban on Thursday under the lights at 7:30 p.m. for their final home match of the non-conference slate.
 
To follow Linfield Wildcats coverage all season long, visit golinfieldwildcats.com. Please consider following Linfield Athletics on Facebook, and @LinfieldSports on Instagram and X.com. 
 
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