GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan – Top-ranked Grand Valley State University jumped on top 1-0 in the opening half and then added two goals in the second stanza to claim a 3-0 victory over the sixth-ranked and visiting Lee women's soccer team on Saturday afternoon.
The Lakers tallied the first score with 18:28 remaining in the first half. Gianna Parlove scored the goal while double assists were recorded by Caitie Baron and Chantel Carranza.
Grand Valley quickly moved out to a 2-0 lead with just under four minutes gone in the second half. Ava Cook knocked in the goal and was assisted by Baron's second assist of the game. The Lakers put the contest out of reach in the 64th minute. Kennedy Bearden picked up the score while Brooke Russell had the assist.
"Obviously the result was not what we wanted, but the girls competed all the way to the end," commented Lee head coach Chris Hennessey. "There are a lot of positives we can take away from today and also some things we can learn from. Grand Valley is a very good team, well coached and will be right there when all is said and done."
The Lady Flames penetrated the Laker defense on several occasions but could never complete the opportunities. They took four shots in the first half and five in the second half, placing two on goal.
Grand Valley attempted five shots in the first half and seven in the second, but had five on target. Lee keeper Taylor Green was credited with two saves in the loss and Jessica Radice also had a pair of saves in the win. Each team had two corner kicks but Lee was charged with 16 fouls to only nine for the Lakers.
"I am extremely proud of the effort we showed this weekend," added Hennessey. "But now our attention shifts to another big game on Friday."
The Lady Flames continue their road adventures on Friday moving up to Jefferson City and facing another tough challenge in 21st ranked Carson-Newman University.
