NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Freshman Kiersten Havens started her collegiate career off with a bang as she scored in the 82^nd minute to give the Lee women's soccer team a 2-1 victory over Lipscomb to kick off the 2021 Spring Season at the Lipscomb Soccer Complex.

Riley Henry, who transferred from Lipscomb in 2019, set up the game-winning score as she found Havens in stride to help knock off her old team.

"Lauren Weimer delivered a beautiful ball into the box and Riley showed great composure to control it and connect with Havens," said Lee head coach Chris Hennessey.

First-year goalkeeper, Jackie Burns recorded seven saves to earn her first victory as a Lady Flame. Burns and the Lee defense turned away a flurry of shots from the Bisons. Lipscomb recorded 17 shots and placed 10 on goal to go along with 10 corner kicks.

"Defensively with Jackie and the back four they played so hard and played with a lot of fight and spirit and showed great resiliency in the second half," said Hennessey. "Lipscomb came after us in the second half and we responded both offensively and defensively to pull it out."

Lipscomb answered the Lady Flames with the equalizer at the 74:37 mark on a goal by Evee Reader. Emily Patti assisted on the score.

Kelsey Yoder found the back of the net in the 42^nd minute to give the Lady Flames the 1-0 advantage. Mallory Hayden set up the goal on a free kick from near midfield and was credited with the assist. Lee would carry the lead into the intermission thanks to Burns six first half saves and a clean sheet.

Lipscomb keeper, Melissa Gray had two saves in the loss. Lee attempted just five shots but made the most of its opportunities placing four on frame and connecting on a pair.

The Bisons, a D1 top 40 program, were the preseason pick to win the Atlantic Sun Conference.

"Lipscomb was incredibly athletic and really presented a challenge for us today," said Hennessey. "Mentally we had periods in the game where we had to grind some things out and show our character and this win taught us we can deal with the ups and downs throughout a tough match and find a way to get the job done. I think this is a great jump start to our season and where we are trying to go as a program."

The Lady Flames (1-0) will open the home portion of the schedule on Tuesday at 5 p.m. as they welcome Lincoln Memorial to the Lee Soccer Field.