Women’s Soccer Wins 2-1 in Season Opener

Thursday, August 19

Newark, Del.

7:00 p.m.

University of Delaware

1-0

George Mason University

0-1

Team	1	2	Final F
George Mason	0	1	1
Delaware	2	0	2

Photo by: Mark Campbell

8/19/2021 9:30:00 PM | Women's Soccer

Box Score Photo Gallery

NEWARK, Del. – The Blue Hens got off to a hot start against visiting George Mason and didn't let up, as they registered a 2-1 win at home at Stuart and Suzanne Grant Stadium tonight in front of a boisterous Delaware crowd.

"I'm thrilled with the win. I think when you go through adversity like that, I think that's how a young team learns how to become a good team," said head coach Mike Barroqueiro. "I think without a doubt the best team won today and I'm proud of the girls. It's tough to get a red card and give up a PK in our first match. Credit to our girls for overcoming it and not letting it deter them tonight."

It was great teamwork that saw Anna Diffendal dish the ball to Sara D'Appolonia, who drew the George Mason goalkeeper out of the box and crossed the ball to the right side of the net to give the Blue Hens their first goal of the season in the 11^thminute of the match.

Goal number two on the day came at the 16-minute mark. Claudia Benz placed the ball nicely at the top of the net and over the goalkeeper's head to extend Delaware's lead to 2-0.

Shannon Lee gave the Patriots their lone goal of the game on a penalty kick in the 74^th minute.

Despite not scoring any goals in the second half, the Blue Hens registered 11 shots in the later period. Delaware totaled 14 shots in the game to George Mason's five.

Tonight's victory is the third straight season-opening win for the Blue Hens (1-0) and the fourth consecutive W over the Patriots (0-1).

"It was amazing to be back under the lights at Grant in a real game environment," said head coach Mike Barroqueiro. "I really believe that this venue is one of the best in the country for women's soccer. Between the surface, stands, fan support, and unbelievable energy that we get from our players, it's an incredible place to play soccer and we're really lucky to be a part of this university."

Delaware returns to Stuart and Suzanne Grant Stadium on Sunday, Aug. 22, as they host Villanova at 7 p.m.

For the latest on the Delaware women's soccer program, follow the Blue Hens on Twitter @DelawareWSOC and Instagram @DelawareWSOC and like "Delaware Women's Soccer" on Facebook.

Gallery: (8-19-2021) WSOC vs. George Mason