Troy University Athletics
Troy University
Alabama A&M University
Trojans Open Season with Win
8/22/2009 12:45:00โฏAM | Soccer
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The Troy Trojans kicked off the year with a convincing victory over the Bulldogs of Alabama A&M, 4-1.
The Trojans (1-0-0) scored four goals in the first half, including the first just 35 seconds into the match, to gain an early lead that proved insurmountable for the Bulldogs (0-1-0).
Mary Morris scored the Trojans' first goal. It was set up by assists from Sarah Sanders and freshman Niki Stamaris. The score set a Troy record for fastest goal scored in program history.
Jill Pinder continued last season's success by recording two goals in the first half.
Stamaris also assisted on Pinder's first goal, while Bridget Duke and Laura Hopson added helpers on the second score.
Another freshman, Erin Cersley, assisted on Troy's fourth goal. That score came with just 38 seconds remaining before halftime when the Charlottesville, Va. native found Morris streaking to the box as the sophomore rocketed a shot past Alabama A&M goal keeper Brittany Christian for a 4-0 Trojans lead.
Ashley Branham received the start in goal for the Trojans and made two saves in the opening period. Katie Kolb played the entire second half in relief, registering one save while allowing the lone Alabama A&M goal.
The Bulldogs picked up their only score of the contest on a Celeste Roberts penalty kick.
Ceil Martinec recorded three shots for the Trojans while playing a full 90 minutes, while Stamaris added two shots.
Troy head coach Chris Bentley was satisfied with his team's performance.
"It was a good start to the year," Bentley said. "We put our legs underneath us, but there is still a lot we need to work on. Overall, it was a great start to the season."
The Trojans will look to capture their second straight win Friday August, 28 on the road at Southeast Louisana.
