Barnesville, GA - Gordon State soccer returned to action with an impressive 3-1 non-conference victory over Spartanburg Methodist College Tuesday evening. The Highlanders began the game with a scorching pace finding the opening goal just 30 seconds into the match. Freshman winger Stephanie Hahn played a driven ball across the goal mouth for an easy finish by sophomore Alex Chapman.

The Highlanders continued to put the Pioneers under pressure resulting in Gordon State doubling their lead only five minutes later. Freshman Jennifer Beharie played a precisely weighted ball beyond the Pioneer defensive line sending freshman Gaby Arellano in one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Arellano demonstrated cool efficiency as she placed the ball firmly into the back of the net.  

Those two goals would be the only scoring in the first half. The Pioneers opened the second half determined to make a game of things. In the 58th minute they were able to pull to within one goal and tighten proceedings. The match settled in for a tense battle from the two sides until the Highlanders put the game away for good in the 71st minute. Gaby Arellano added an assist to her goal for the night by receiving a cross at the top of the box then turning and finding Alex Chapman open to her left. Chapman took a positive touch beyond the defensive line and finish the play with her team leading 7th goal of the season.

The win improves the Highlanders overall record to 8-1-2. Gordon State has a quick turnaround as they return to Region 17 play Friday Oct. 4 at 5:00 PM in Douglas, GA against South Georgia State. The two rivals have met twice already this season; the first a 3-2 Gordon State victory, and the most recent a difficult 1-1 draw in Douglas just days ago.