JOHNSON, Vt. — Senior Olivia Charles converted a penalty kick in the 73rd minute as the Husson University women's soccer team defeated Vermont State University Johnson 1-0 in North Atlantic Conference action Sunday at Minaert Field.
The Eagles (5-4-2, 3-1 NAC) controlled play throughout the afternoon, finishing with a 29-0 advantage in shots while keeping the Badgers (4-7, 1-3 NAC) without a corner kick.
Husson applied pressure early, earning two corner kicks in the opening two minutes before senior Emma Nicholson forced Johnson goalkeeper Sophia Johnson into a save in the fourth minute. Charles followed with a shot on target in the seventh minute as the Eagles continued to generate opportunities.
Junior Paige Dunn tested Johnson four times during the opening half, while Jordyn Lloyd and Charles also had attempts stopped midway through the period.
Junior Hailey Tarbox nearly put Husson ahead with an attempt that was cleared by the Badgers' defense with nine minutes remaining in the half. Marila Corletto added a shot on target in the 43rd minute, but the teams entered halftime scoreless despite Husson holding a 15-0 advantage in shots and earning nine corner kicks.
The Eagles resumed their offensive pressure after the break. Dunn forced another save in the 47th minute before Charles struck the left post just 10 seconds later.
Dunn put another attempt on frame in the 55th minute, and junior Ella Hosford tested Johnson in the 63rd minute as Husson continued searching for the breakthrough.
The Eagles were rewarded at 72:11 when Charles converted from the penalty spot to give Husson a 1-0 lead.
Husson continued to create chances after moving ahead. Sophomore Jaquie Pangburn forced a save in the 80th minute before sophomore Thea Gerfen added a shot on target in the 81st. The Eagles' defense maintained its control through the closing minutes to secure the conference victory.
Dunn led Husson with eight shots, including six on goal, while Charles finished with seven attempts and three on target. Pangburn and Gerfen each contributed three shots.
Sophomore Gabriella Smith played all 90 minutes in goal to earn the shutout without facing a shot. Johnson recorded 14 saves for the Badgers, who also received a team save in the first half.
Husson will return home Saturday to host Vermont State University Lyndon for Senior Day in a North Atlantic Conference matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. at John P. Boucher Field.
