Spring Arbor, MI – The eighth-ranked Patriots women's soccer team faced their second top-ten opponent defeating ninth-ranked Aquinas 3-2 on Monday afternoon.  With the win, UC improves to 3-0-2 on the season, while the Saints move to 1-1.

Nicole Araujo led the way for Cumberlands tying her career-high with two goals and an assist in the match.  Ines Martin Garcia De La Torre netted a goal, while Sara Soto and Letizia Traversone each tallied an assist.  Morgan White made four saves in the match to earn the win.

The Saints record the first shot of the match, which was saved by Morgan White in the 5'.  White added a save in the 9', before the Patriots took control of the possession.  Wakana Ose and Abigail Little each tallied a shot to along with a corner kick.  Cumberlands continue to apply pressure earning a corner kick in the 29'.  A minute later UC took advantage of a Saints' penalty as Nicole Araujo buried the free kick just inside the post for her fourth goal of the season putting UC in front 1-0.  Aquinas looked for the equalizer off a corner kick, however, the Pats defense cleared the ball.  Cumberlands continued to apply pressure and capitalized in the 38' as Letizia Traversone sent a cross towards the back post, where Araujo slid in and netted her second goal of the match.  Cumberlands had a corner kick in the final minute of the half but couldn't convert as the Patriots took a 2-0 lead into half.

Cumberlands extended their lead in the second half as taking control of the possession from the opening whistle.  Just over a minute into the period, Araujo pushed the ball up to Sara Soto, who centered the ball for Ines Martin Garcia De La Torre for her first collegiate goal making it 3-0. The two teams traded possession over the next few minutes while Martin put a shot on frame, which was saved.  The Patriots tallied shots from Fernandez Calvo and Araujo in the 69' minute but couldn't convert, keeping the score 3-0.  A minute later, Aquinas put a corner kick into the box and the ball slipped past the line for a goal cutting the lead to 3-1. The Saints looked to cut into the lead, however, White punch the ball away.  Both teams put a pair of shots on frame, which were saved keeping the score 3-1.  UC had two more chances at point-blank range both of which were saved.  The Saints converted in the 89' with a goal to pull within a goal at 3-2.  Aquinas had a chance for the equalizer in the closing seconds, however, the Patriots defense prevailed for the 3-2 final. 

Cumberlands outshot the Saints 17-8 in the match and held a 5-3 edge on corner kicks.

The Patriots will return to the pitch on Saturday, September 6, when they host #13 Indiana Wesleyan in their home opener.  Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at the UC Soccer Complex
 
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