ELON, NC – Kelly Bertwell cashed in on an early second-half penalty kick that would stand up, lifting Radford to a 2-1 road victory over Elon, in the Big South Conference opener for both teams, Friday afternoon at Rudd Field.
Nikki Porter gave the Highlanders (6-1, 1-0 Big South) a 1-0 advantage just 2:30 into the contest, thanks to assists from Bertwell and Rebecca Hoffman. Bertwell’s score fattened Radford’s lead to 2-0 at the 48:58 mark. Kelly Williams split the deficit in half for the Phoenix (1-5, 0-1) on a pass from Jessica Mills at 70:22.
Each team took seven shots on goal. Altogether, Elon out-shot Radford 19-13. Highlander goalie Samantha Woods collected six saves as Radford beat the Phoenix for the first time in four meetings. The loss was just Elon’s third in regular season league play in three seasons.
Phoenix goalkeeper Kara Zagol was charged with both Highlander scores, but registered five saves. Next up: Elon hosts Georgetown at 1 p.m. Sunday at Rudd Field. Radford returns to action at Charleston Southern on Sept. 28.
-- ELON -- Game Box Score
