GREENWOOD – Back in action at
Van Taylor Stadium to kick off the 2025 season, the Lander Women's Soccer team captured a dramatic 2-1 win over North Greenville after newcomer
Maddie Leber knocked in a rebound in the 90th minute in front of a frenzied home crowd.
Ruby Stayduhar sent a free-kick into the box with 30 seconds left, and
Evelyn Wright nearly headed it over NGU's keeper who got her outstretched glove on the ball but couldn't corral it. Leber had positioned herself perfectly to send the game-winner into the lower right corner of the net.
The Bearcats (1-0) held the Trailblazers (0-1) to zero shots in the first half as part of a signature defensive performance. Sophomore
Peyton Bibbee scored for the first time in her career to put the Bearcats in front 1-0 in the 30th minute.
Reagan Hardy sent a cross from the left side of the pitch that was blocked by the Trailblazers' keeper and Bibbee was there to put in the rebound with her left foot.
NGU's lone goal was a Lander own-goal in the 65th minute. The Bearcats held the Trailblazers to three shots and only two scoring chances during the game. Conversely, Lander took 22 shots and nine were on goal.
The Bearcats will hit the road for Anderson (S.C.) on Saturday, Sep. 6. Kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Spero Financial Field at Melvin & Dollie Younts Stadium.
