Top-ranked Carolina’s title defense got off to a bumpy start.

The Tar Heels gave up a pair of second-half goals on their way to a 2-0 defeat in the regular-season opener against Tennessee in Knoxville Thursday night. It’s the first time since 2014 UNC has lost the first match of the season.

Though Carolina doubled up the Volunteers on total shots (14-7), Tennessee made the most of its chances in the second half. Shae O’Rourke broke a scoreless tie in the 57th minute, depositing a breakaway chance into the back of the Tar Heel net. O’Rourke was at it again in the 76th minute, scoring off a cross to put Tennessee up 2-0. UNC would not send a shot on goal for the remainder of the night.

Kate Faasse, the reigning national player of the year, was held to just one total shot. Olivia Thomas led UNC with four shots. The 2-0 loss marks the first time in Carolina’s last 13 matches dating back to the 2024 season that the Tar Heels have been held scoreless.

UNC will return to Chapel Hill Sunday for its home opener against Siena at Dorrance Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.

 

Featured image via UNC Women’s Soccer on Twitter

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