Columbia ups winning streak to three with victory over Knights

The Columbia College Koalas upped their AAC record to 3-1 and increased their win streak to three by grinding out a 1-0 victory on the road against the St. Andrews Knights.

Columbia, fresh off an exciting win over high fliers Bryan, traveled to Laurinburg, NC, for their fourth AAC matchup of the year looking to continue their recent trend of success.  The match would not be an easy one, however, as a very disciplined and well-drilled Knights side time and again made it hard for the Koalas to break them down.

Despite plenty of efforts on frame and chances coming from a variety of sources, Columbia was unable to break the deadlock until the 80th minute of the game.  Senior Alexis Cesario found space down the right before firing a shot that the Knights goalkeeper saved, but Junior Ruby Hallam was on hand to slam home the rebound for her second goal of the year to make it 1-0.  The Knights pushed forward in the dying moments, looking for an equalizer, but a reliable Koala backline lead by Senior Hannah Fox, Junior Sarah DiPiazza, and Freshman Bailey Lewter, repelled the Knights until the final whistle.

Senior goalkeepers Morgan McCray and Katherine Yahnke split the time in goal to each earn a 45 minute shutout, while other standout performers in the game were Junior midfielder Mallorie Belt and freshman midfielder Brianna Sandoval.

Columbia returns to action on Saturday, September 30th at home when they host the Union College Bulldogs during family day for the Koalas.