Trojans Claim Historic Win in Victory over UT Martin

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.– Forwards Bronte Peel and Jessie Vaden each registered their first goal of the season on Thursday evening as Little Rock (4-4-2) triumphed over the visiting Skyhawks of UT Martin (2-5-2) at the Coleman Sports Complex.
 
The scoring began quickly as the Trojans took an early lead in the third minute of the match. After the Skyhawks goalkeeper misplayed a pass from a teammate, Vaden took advantage on an open net opportunity which led to an easy goal.
 
However, UT Martin would not go down without a fight. A corner kick for the Skyhawks followed by a clearing attempt allowed midfielder Brooke Kala to corral a loose ball and score the equalizer in the 14^th minute.
 
Little Rock would break the stalemate in the 86^th minute. Fifth-year defender Natalee Geren lined up for a free kick near midfield and delivered a well-placed pass into the box. Peel answered the bell with a header that found its way past the Skyhawk defenders and into the back of the net, giving the Trojans the lead for good.
 
The Trojan defense was on a mission in the second half of the match. UT Martin was unable to get a shot off in the final 45 minutes of the competition. Little Rock also held the corner kick advantage throughout the game, finishing with seven total while the Skyhawks mustered just two.
 
"I'm really happy with today's performance." Little Rock Head Coach Kelly Farrell had to say about her team. "I thought it was our most complete game of the year. The team was bought into our plan and executed it well and I'm glad they were rewarded with the win."
 
This victory is the first for any Little Rock program in conference play since joining the OVC on July 1 of this year. The Trojans have repeatedly shown that the Coleman Sports Complex is a tough place for opponents to come play, with this win Little Rock now has a record of 3-1-1 in the Capital City.
 
"As always, I appreciate the support of our fans and student section who continue to make Coleman a tough place to play." Farrell said.
 
Little Rock is back in action with another OVC matchup on Sunday at Southern Indiana. It will be the beginning of a two-game road trip for the Trojans, who won't return home until October 6 when they take on Southeast Missouri.
 
For the latest information on Little Rock Soccer, make sure to check out LRTrojans.com. You can also find the team on social media at @LittleRockSOC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
 
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