Pacers Improve but Fall to Spirits

Raleigh, NC—Peace dropped a tough 4-0 loss to the Salem College Spirits in today’s final day of the Meredith Matchup 2009.  Three Pacers earned all-tournament recognition for their efforts this weekend: Haley Bright (Snow Hill, NC), Melissa Moran (Raleigh, NC), and Jennifer Gilbert (Burlington, NC).  The Pacers moved to 0-3 overall.  The Spirits improved to 2-0-1.

Peace continued to struggle in the net today and allowed four goals, three in the second period.  But the much improved ball control kept the score manageable.  Keeper Sherry Revels (Apex, NC) recorded eight saves on the day.

Newcomer sophomore Karissa Herring (Seven Springs, NC) and defender Gilbert showed the tenacity this Pacer team needs to succeed on the field.  Bright, Moran, and Harlonda Smith (Huntersville, NC) pressured the Salem goal but could not steal the net from the keeper.

Four separate Spirits earned a goal this afternoon.  Tori Collier, assisted by Tia Bringhurst, reached the net in the first ten minutes of the match.  Teammates Sabrina Thiel and Tara Madden each scored a goal in the second half.  Bringhurst picked up one and Erica Edwards earned two assists in the win.

The Pacers travel next weekend to Emory, Virginia to face the Wasps of Emory and Henry College.  Sunday’s first kick is slated for 2:00 pm.  Don’t miss the team’s home opener Saturday, September 19, at WakeMed Soccer Park (#4) versus Randolph College.  See you on the sidelines!