ANGOLA, Ind. – The Franklin College women's soccer team kicked off the 2021 fall season on Wednesday (Sept. 1) afternoon, traveling north to take on the Trine Thunder in their season opener.

An early goal proved to be the game's lone tally, as Franklin (0-1) played from behind for most of the afternoon. The Grizzlies put together a couple strong chances late in the game but were unable to connect as the Thunder (1-0) held on for a 1-0 win.

How it Happened
The two sides traded attempts early before the first shot on target by Trine's Teresa Ashbrook found the net to give the hosts the lead in the 12th minute. The Thunder put three more shots on target in the opening 45 minutes, but each was turned back by sophomore keeper Riley Rice.

Rice stayed sharp early in the second half, stopping three shots in the opening 11 minutes of the final period. Franklin's best chances came in the game's final 10 minutes with attempts from Elaina Page and Lilly Haines, but each shot on goal was denied.

Inside the Box Score
-Making her first career start in goal, Rice turned in a strong performance and stopped eight of the nine Trine shots on target.
-Four Franklin freshmen made their first career appearances with Jaiden Baker, Maddison Claybrooke and Chase Brewer all getting the start and Sydney Doan coming in as a sub.

Up Next
Franklin opens their home schedule on Sunday (Sept. 5) with an afternoon matchup against John Carroll University. Kick-off from Faught Stadium is set for 1:00 p.m.