PEMBROKE, N.C. – The Converse College (1-8) soccer team was defeated by UNC Pembroke (3-2) by the score of 5-0 Tuesday evening at the Lumbee River EMC. Pembroke scored three times in the first half and twice in the second to secure the non-conference win.
Both teams were getting the feel for each other over the first 10 minutes of action. However, the Braves struck first in the 14th minute with a score from a cross that was headed in. Converse was presented with several opportunities to knot the match, but were turned away by the UNCP keeper.
That misfortune from the Vals led to UNC Pembroke taking a 2-0 lead in the 27th minute followed by a 3-0 advantage after a ball snuck past the keeper with 12 minutes to play before the intermission. Converse was not able to muster any offense over the final time of the first half, heading into halftime down three goals.
Darian Bankston came out in the second half and made some spectacular saves, but Pembroke was able to add a fourth and fifth goal in the 53rd and 63rd minutes, respectively. The Valkyries played from behind the rest of the match, but could not post a tally on the scoreboard, falling by the final of 5-0.
UNCP held a 28-13 advantage on shots, as well as 9-5 on corners. Cassidy Marshall led the Purple and Gold with five shots, including two on goal. Melissa Carlyle, Kayla Noon, and Hallie Lycans added two shots each. Bankston played all 90 minutes between the pipes, allowing five goals, while collecting eight saves.
Converse will return to Conference Carolinas action on Saturday, October 6, traveling to Banner Elk, N.C. to take on Lees-McRae. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:45 p.m.