Photo by: Jacob Rokeach

With a 2-0 win over Sun Belt Conference rival North Texas Friday, the DU Women’s soccer team earned the No. 1 seed in the SBC tournament. The Pioneers finished the regular season with an overall record of 15-2-1 and an SBC record of 11-0-0.

The Pioneers showcased their attacking prowess and leapt to an early lead. Junior defender Elise Mascitelli received the ball from freshman forward Mariah Johnston in the 8th minute and deflected the ball into the net, bringing the score to 1-0.

Eleven minutes later, the Pioneers found the back of the net again. Sophomore defender Jessica Keller laid a beautiful crossing pass to freshman midfielder Lizzy Carlson, who blasted the ball into the upper corner making the score 2-0.

In the second half, the Pioneers assumed a more defensive posture. North Texas increased the pressure with a pair of dangerous attacks, both of which were saved by junior goalkeeper Dana Wiley.

NT’s frustration mounted as DU’s defense did not relent and the game became more physical. Referees issued four yellow cards to NT players in the second half alone.

Despite the rough play, the game was very one-sided. NT attempted a mere three shots on goal, compared with DU’s 17.

The Pioneers now advance to the Sun Belt Conference tournament, which begins Wednesday, Nov. 1st in Lafayette, La. The winner of the SBC tournament earns an automatic spot in the NCAA Women’s College Cup.