CALEB RIORDAN | Reporter

Lindenwood women’s soccer opened their season with an afternoon 0-0 match at University of Illinois-Springfield on Sept. 1.

Defense was the theme of the contest, with Lindenwood’s Megan Swanson and Springfield’s Paloma Guijarro coming up with the shutout for their clubs.  Swanson, a sophomore, made two saves in her debut for the Lions. This is Lindenwood’s third time in four seasons holding its opponent without a score in the opener.  

Marissa Barria and Morgan Weller led the Lions’ attack, firing three shots each, while both putting one on goal.  Taylor Mraz led the Prairie Stars’ attack, registering three shots, and none on goal. As a whole, the Lions were outshot 16-9. However, Lindenwood put three shots on goal compared to Springfield’s two.

While the Lions’ opener did not go according to plan, they will have a chance to bounce back next week.  Their first opportunity will come against Maryville University at home on Monday. Both teams will be coming into the contest sporting a 0-0-1 record.

They follow up the Maryville contest with another home game against Drury on Friday. After that, the schedule gives Lindenwood more opportunities for wins, with seven of the next 10 games being played on their home turf, including the next five in a row.