BELMONT, N.C. — An early goal from Addie Galek proved to be the difference for the Belmont Abbey women's soccer team as the Crusaders defeated Francis Marion 1-0 Saturday afternoon at Alumni Field.
 
Galek scored her third goal of the season in the 11th  minute, shortly before the match was suspended due to inclement weather for nearly two hours. 
 
After the delay, the Crusaders were able to withstand the Patriots' attack and earn a second straight victory against a regionally-ranked opponent. FMU was ranked No. 10 in the United Soccer Coaches poll entering Saturday's contest and was previously unbeaten in Conference Carolinas play. 

With Saturday's win, Belmont Abbey improves to 9-3-2 overall and 6-2-2 in conference play. Francis Marion is now 8-2-4 overall and 7-1-3 in the league.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED

• Galek scored the lone goal of the match off a deflection and it was the first shot of the match for the Crusaders.
• Brianna Sroka got the start in goal and made two saves in the first half for the Abbey.
• The Crusaders took three shots in each half.
• Mia Muckenthaler provided the only other shot on goal for the match for the Abbey.
• Ryleigh Dougherty helped the Crusaders preserve the shutout in the second half, making four saves, including three in the final 10 minutes of play.
• Belmont Abbey had four corner kicks for the match.

UP NEXT

• Belmont Abbey closes out the regular season next week with a pair of Northwest Division road contests.
• The Crusaders will face King on Wednesday followed by a match at North Greenville next Saturday.
• Both matches are scheduled for 1 p.m. starts.