BELMONT, N.C. — Haley Long and
Jadyn Radestock scored a pair of goals less than two minutes apart as the Belmont Abbey women's soccer team opened the 2026 campaign with a 2-1 victory over UNC Pembroke in the season opener Thursday at Alumni Field.
Trailing 1-0 late into the second half, the two goals from distance in the 84th and 86th minutes, respectively, capped off the comeback for the Abbey.
It is the third straight victory for the Crusaders over the Braves and fourth in the last five meetings. The match was officially a nonconference contest.
HOW IT HAPPENED
- The two teams combined for just one shot on goal in the first 45 minutes.
- Ryleigh Dougherty made the start in goal and finished with a save in the contest.
- Caroline Roche and Hanna Doerr each recorded shots in the first half.
- The Crusaders took its first shot on goal early in the second half as part of an early surge.
- UNC Pembroke scored first with its goal in the 57th minute.
- Long's 25th career goal found the back of the net as the equalizer while Radestock scored less than two minutes later.
- Belmont Abbey finished with a 10-9 advantage in shots and 6-2 shots on goal.
- Five freshmen made their collegiate debuts in the contest Thursday: Kate Jaques, Kwyn Bruce, Lanna Robinson, Abbey Stadnicar and Kelcey Morris.
- Jaques also got the start for the Crusaders in the match.
UP NEXT
- Belmont Abbey faces a quick turnaround in its opening weekend to face Wingate on Saturday.
- The match against the Bulldogs is scheduled for a 4:30 p.m. start at Alumni Field.
