REDDING, Calif. – A goal in the eighth minute by senior
Bryce Branagan-Franco (pictured) proved to be all NCU would need in a strong defensive performance, knocking off Simpson University, 2-0 in the first road game of the season.
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Nikki Bevans and Bryce both made a huge impact in the midfield today," said Head Coach
Jessica Cardwell. "Our forwards worked extremely hard throughout the whole game. We grew alot today."
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NCU improves to 2-0 on the season as they post their second straight shutout performance.
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Branagan-Franco got things going early on as she took a pass from
Selina Chacon for the early game-winner.
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Sami Wilson provided an insurance score in the 33rd minute, off of a feed from
Maddi Bartholomew.
Cardwell said, "We played a really good first half. We controlled the pace and the possession completely."
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Mackenzie Galick and
Katie Hastings split time in goal for the Beacons and each recorded a save as the stalwart NCU defense held the Redhawks to just two shots on goal.
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NCU is off to their first two-win start to a season since 2006. The Beacons will look to make it three straight on Friday when they face William Jessup University in a game being hosted by Simpson.Â
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