Printed in the Commerce Journal

SAN ANTONIO– The Texas A&M University-Commerce Lions got an early goal and made it hold up as they posted their fifth shutout in six games with a 1-0 victory over the University of the Incarnate Word Crusaders in the first round of the NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Tournament.

The Lions ( 16-3-1) posted the only goal of the contest when freshman Jana Sandall headed the direct kick of senior Sherri Konlande into the goal in the game's 15th minute.

"We played an outstanding defensive game." said Lion head coach Neil Piper. "We got the goal early then dominated the midfield and in the air."
 
Lion freshman goalkeeper Sarah Fagan recorded eight saves off of 16 Crusader shots to post her 11th shutout of the season.
 
The Crusaders fall to 15-3 on the season with the loss. The defense of the Lions was keyed by the play of junior midfielder Toni Catchings.
 
"She had one of her best games in the midfield and dominated for us." Piper explained. "She was a key to our game."
 
The Lions also stopped the strong play of Crusader forward Brooke Hopkins. The fifth leading scorer in Division II managed six shots, all without scoring.
 
Twice in the second half, Hopkins was open on a break away only to miss the shot or have the ball saved by Fagan.
 
A crowd of 425 witnessed the game at Crusader Field.