ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The Harris-Stowe State University women's soccer team kicked off their season this afternoon when they played host to the Avila (Mo.) University Eagles in a nonconference matchup. The Hornets defeated the Eagles by a final score of 2-1 to improve to 1-0 on the season.

It did not take long for the Hornets to get on the board in this one as they scored just 12 minutes into the game when Yasmina Dressen found Malou Hagedorn in the box for her first goal of the season. The Hornets were back at it again just four minutes later when Mary Grace Angeli found Rachael Manly who was able to chip the keeper to make the score 2-0. Avila battled back and were able to score a goal late in the half, but the score remained 2-1 at the break.

The Hornets came out in the second half and controlled the tempo early. They created several scoring chances but were unable to add to their lead. However, they kept the Eagles out of the back of net and were able to cruise to their first win of the season.

Lisa Pietz (1-0) was in goal for the Hornets as she recorded seven saves in the game.

The Hornets will return to the field on Tuesday, August 24^th when they travel to St. Louis Soccer Park to take on the Webster (Mo.) University Gorloks in an exhibition match. The game is set to start at 5:00 p.m.