Freshman forward Jordan Diffenderfer made her first collegiate goal a game-winning one, as she led the Belles to their first victory of the season. Saint Mary's edged Illinois Tech 1-0 Friday to stop a seven-game losing streak to begin the season.
This win was significant for another reason — it was the Belles' first under first-year coach Michael Joyce.
Diffenderfer's goal was set up by freshman Ellie Jacques, who pushed the ball into the offensive zone and unleashed a shot from the point that Scarlet Hawks goalkeeper Amy Arnhart initially saved. Fortunately for the Belles (1-7), the ball deflected right to Diffenderfer's feet, and she took full advantage.
The Scarlet Hawks (4-3), however, did not go down without a fight. They outshot the Belles 6-1 in the final 20 minutes but were unable to capitalize on the offensive onslaught. The Belles held on due in large part to their defensive effort. Sophomore Caitlin Walsh, who tallied her first career shutout with six saves on the night, led the defense.
The Belles hope to ride this momentum into a game with Manchester College on Tuesday.
