BELMONT, N.C. — Haley Long tallied an early second-half goal and Ryleigh Dougherty recorded her second career shutout as the Belmont Abbey women's soccer team opened the 2025 season with a 1-0 victory over Georgia College & State Thursday at Alumni Field.

The Crusaders won their home opener for the second straight year as the contest marked the opening match for both teams.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Both teams were locked in a defensive battle early as only one shot was recorded in the first 26 minutes of play between both teams.
• Dougherty recorded the first of her three saves in the 31st minute.
• The Crusaders took three shots in the first 45 minutes.
• The match had an extended halftime due to a lightning delay in the area.
• Long's goal came in the 48th minute off an assist from Francesca Highton. It was the first shot on target of the match for the Abbey.
• Sabrina Cunha led the Crusaders with two shots.
• Dougherty made two saves in the second half to help Belmont Abbey preserve the win.

UP NEXT

• Belmont Abbey heads on the road to face Wingate at 7 p.m. Saturday.
• The Crusaders defeated the Bulldogs 2-0  in the matchup last season in Belmont.