AUSTIN, Texas. - Concordia St. Paul Soccer (1-0) opened the 2024 campaign with a 1-0 victory against the Texas A&M International Dustdevils (0-1-1) on Saturday afternoon. 

Following the season-opening win, Head Coach Steve Bellis stated, "It was an evenly matched very competitive game. I was super impressed with our defensive game plan, the backline stayed strong. Our willingness to press high paid off." 

Senior forward Sammy Ponsonby scored the eventual game winner at the 67th minute mark with a high shot to the right of the net. Bellis commented, "Sammy took her chance well and we hope to keep rolling tomorrow for our second game in Texas."

Junior Kayla Matuzak made her seventh career start in the net for the Navy and Gold. Making three saves to secure the shutout. 

In the first half, the Golden Bears held a 5-2 shot advantage over the Dustdevils, but neither team was able to capitalize on a goal. Belle Abruzzo had the first shot of the day at the three minute mark followed by Jada Cannady, Amaya O'Hearn, Clare Snapko and Brittany Bordson all adding shots of their own. 

Texas A&M International managed a 7-3 advantage of shots in the second half, including four shots in the final 20 minutes to try and avenge the CSP goal. 

Concordia was able to control the field and ultimately secure their season-opening victory. 

Sammy Ponsonby led the charge for the Golden Bears scoring her fourth career goal. Cannady and Snapko each led the team in shots with two a piece. 

The Golden Bears will stay in Austin to take on the Hilltoppers of St. Edwards tomorrow at 1 p.m.