FRANKLIN, Ind. – Conference play began for the Franklin College women's soccer team on Wednesday (Sept. 29) night with a matchup against the Manchester Spartans under the lights at Faught Stadium.

Junior Lilly Haines found the back of the net early in the second half and that goal stood up as the winner as the Grizzlies (2-6, 1-0 HCAC) held off the Spartans (1-5, 0-1 HCAC) by a 1-0 count.

How it Happened

Scoring chances were tough to come by in the opening half, with Franklin attempting five shots to two for the Spartans with both sides putting on shot on target. After 45 minutes of play, the two teams remained locked in a scoreless draw.

Franklin's first chance of the second half produced the goal, with Haines taking a long pass from freshman center back Maddison Claybrooke and breaking in down the right wing. Her shot banked in off the Manchester goalkeeper, getting the hosts on the board and triggering an emotional celebration from Haines.

The Grizzly defense made the goal stand up, allowing just one shot on target before the final horn sounded.

Inside the Box Score
-Haines was a threat to score all night long, leading all players with three shot attempts and two shots on target.
-Franklin held an 8-5 edge in shots for the night while both teams put three shots on goal. Rice was perfect in turning away each Spartan attempt, earning her second clean sheet of the year. 

Up Next
Franklin continues conference play on Saturday (Oct. 2) afternoon when they travel north to meet the Anderson Ravens. Kick-off is set for 1:00 p.m.