Box Score FINAL BOX
CULLOWHEE, NC—Winthrop's Lady Eagles soccer team battled Western Carolina to a 1-1 double overtime draw in their regular season opener on Sunday afternoon at the Catamount Athletic Complex.

Winthrop had two first half scoring opportunities go awry before they were able to grab the lead when freshman JoJo Taylor netted an unassisted goal inside the box at the 42^nd minute mark.  "It was a great game to be a part of in my collegiate debut," Taylor said.  "I was extremely excited to get out there and compete alongside my teammates and we are looking forward to growing as a team."

Junior Caroline Duncan, in her first season as the starting goalkeeper, was solid with six saves.  The Lady Eagles had their chances with six total shots attempted through regular time.  Two of these were saved by Western Carolina's Lauren Martin, with the third being Winthrop's lone goal.

Winthrop appeared to be on their way to a season opening victory when momentum suddenly shifted at the 82^nd minute mark as they were called for a foul about 10 yards outside of the box.  The Catamounts quickly capitalized as freshman Sayres McKenna curved the ball around Winthrop's wall and knotted the score at 1-1.

Both teams misfired on one shot a piece during the first overtime period.  There was a flurry of activity in the second overtime as Western Carolina tested Duncan's goalkeeping abilities and she answered the call, coming up with a pair of crucial saves, including one in the final minute of the match.

Head coach Spencer Smith was pleased with his team's overall performance today.  "I am proud of our effort today," said Coach Smith.  "At times we played some really attractive soccer and displayed a mental toughness that helped us obtain the result we deserved."

Winthrop (0-0-1) hosts Francis Marion in their home opener, Thursday, Aug. 27 at 7:00 p.m. at Eagle Field.

For the latest information on Winthrop women's soccer, follow @WUWOMENSSOCCER on Twitter or go to www.winthropeagles.com.