Junior Casey Cleary produced the game's first goal with only 12 minutes gone Game statistics

Appalachian Opens the Season in Winning Form by Defeating Tennessee Tech 2-0
by ASU Sports Information

Aug 21, 2007 - BOONE, NC - Appalachian State women’s soccer opened the season the winning way with a 2-0 triumph over Tennessee Tech inside Kidd Brewer Stadium. Following a 1-1 preseason that included a win over Campbell only four days earlier, the Mountaineers were in good form in the season kickoff. The win marks the first victory in program history for Appalachian over Tennessee Tech in three tries dating back to 1999.

“It’s a win,” said head coach Ben Popoola. “We are improving every match, but we still have some things to work on. We gave up too many chances and almost got burned.”

Junior Casey Cleary opened the score line in the 13th minute as she stuffed home a pass from freshman Rachel Handy in the net from the edge of the six-yard box. The goal is the 17th career goal for Cleary, moving her into a tie for fifth place on the all-time goals chart.

A late penalty gave Appalachian an opportunity to extend the lead. Sophomore Stephanie Balzano took the spot kick and beat the keeper to extend the lead to 2-0 in the 86th minute.

Appalachian controlled the pace of play and worked most of the match inside the Golden Eagle defensive third. ASU took 14 shots with eight on goal. The Mountaineers earned nine corner kicks while allowing only two. Appalachian committed 16 fouls and earned 11.

Sophomore Emma White notched the win in goal being tested only once in the match. The shutout is the seventh of White’s career .

The Mountaineers return to action this Monday, September 3 with a Labor Day match against Winthrop who earned a 1-1 draw on Friday night against Francis Marion. The Eagles and Mountaineers will take to the field at the ASU Soccer Stadium at 4:00. Admission is free.