An early goal from Nick Lockermann was all UNC needed to secure a 1-0 victory against VCU at Dorrance Field Friday night. It was Carolina’s first win and clean sheet of the season.

Lockermann struck in the seventh minute, as the Vermont transfer found himself unmarked outside the VCU penalty area and fired. The shot took a deflection on its way goalward, helping it past the VCU keeper and into the back of the net.

UNC would control the action for the remainder of the second half, not allowing a VCU shot on target and threatening to extend the lead past 1-0.

After halftime, Carolina goalkeeper Alan Rutkowski found himself much busier. Rutkowski made three saves in a span of 3:04 midway through the second half, preserving his clean sheet and the Tar Heel lead. UNC, meanwhile, didn’t let up on its attack, sending three more shots on target as well. For the match, Carolina outshot VCU 15-5 and held a 7-3 edge in shots on goal. The Tar Heels also took 12 corner kicks to the Rams’ four.

UNC is now 1-1-1 through three matches this season. The Tar Heels will head west for their next action, traveling to Berkeley to face Cal Sunday, Sep. 6 in the two programs’ first-ever meeting as ACC foes. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern time.

 

Featured image via UNC Athletic Communications/Jeffrey A. Camarati

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