Playing at Koskinen Stadium in Durham on Thursday night as part of the Duke Nike Classic, the third-ranked UNC women’s soccer team eked out a tight 1-0 victory over the Providence Friars–thanks to a goal from senior defender Julia Ashley late in the first half.

UNC (4-0-1) racked up 19 shots and 12 corner kick attempts in the match, compared to just eight shots and one corner for Providence (3-1-0).

Despite having complete control for the majority of the evening, the Tar Heels were only able to break through in the 40th minute when Ashley sprinted into the box to finish off a rebound following a shot attempt from sophomore forward Alessia Russo.

It was just the third goal of Ashley’s career, and second of hers that also earned the distinction as a game-winner.

From there, Ashley and the rest of the UNC defense held tight to hand the Friars their first loss of the young season.

Up Next:

The Tar Heels continue play in the Duke Nike Classic on Sunday when they face Marquette (0-3-1) in a match scheduled to begin at noon.

 

 

Photo via Jeffrey A. Camarati (UNC Athletics)