FINAL SCORE: Vermont 1, UMass Lowell 0
BURLINGTON, Vt. – Rachel Phillips' third goal of the season in the 33rd minute was enough to lift Vermont (4-6, 1-0 AE) to a 1-0 victory over UMass Lowell (5-4, 0-2 AE) Friday afternoon at Moulton Winder Field. Vermont's win in the conference opener is its first since 2006.
 
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COACH'S THOUGHTS
"I'm impressed by the focus and discipline our players showed today," head coach Kate Pfeifer said. "The on-field leadership from our upperclassmen was exactly what you hope for this time of year, and consistency on defense helped us close the game."
 
HOW IT HAPPENED

• Vermont controlled the first half with sustained pressure in the River Hawk end with chances on goalie Eva Berkhout (4 saves).
• Phillips broke through on Vermont's ninth penalty corner of the afternoon, receiving a pass from Carla Godsman before firing a shot past Berkhout from 15 yards away.
• In the second half, the Cats controlled possession and prevented the River Hawks from gaining momentum near the UVM goal.
• Sierra Espeland (2 saves) made her first save of the game in the 54th minute. The sophomore was aggressive throughout the game and broke up UML centering passes.
• Espeland recorded her first career shutout with the win.
• Vermont set a new season-high with 12 penalty corners. UMass Lowell had six corner chances.

NEXT UP
Vermont returns to action next Friday (Oct. 5) with a trip down I-89 to take on New Hampshire (3-6, 1-0 AE). The Wildcats took a 3-2 win over No. 18 Maine earlier Friday.