Box Score
Mariah Richards Video Interview

COLUMBUS – The Capital University women's soccer team had opportunities in the offensive third for a majority of the contest Friday, finally scoring midway through the second half to beat Defiance 2-0 in a non-conference affair at Bernlohr Stadium.

After dominating possession for a majority of the match, the Crusaders (4-3 overall) found the back of the net in the 67th minute. Junior Livvy Hein (Columbus, Ohio) placed a beautiful corner kick in the middle of the box. After the ball was deflected twice, junior Holly Phillips (Bellbrook, Ohio) touched the ball to freshman Mariah Richards (Canton, Ohio; at right), who finished past the keeper.

The goal was the first for Richards in her career and proved to be the game-winner.

Senior Natalie Fiorelli (Pickerington, Ohio) added an insurance goal, her team-leading fifth of the year, in the 79th minute off a feed from junior Katie Freshour (North Canton, Ohio). That tally was also set up by a corner kick.

"You have to give Defiance credit, their '4-5-1' was very defensive and made it challenging for us," Capital coach Chris Kouns said. "We thought we were a little unlucky in the first half to have two goals called back, but at the same time, we weren't doing the simple things we needed to do to break it down."

Capital held the Yellow Jackets (1-2-2) without a shot for the entire contest, holding an 18-0 advantage. The Crusaders also took nine corner kicks against none for Defiance.

Junior goalkeeper Maggie Donnellan (Cincinnati, Ohio) played the entire match for Capital to record her first shutout of the season.

"I'm certainly pleased with the win and pleased we found a way to gut it out," Kouns said. "As this team evolves and develops, we have to start paying attention to the details, which is what we did so well last year. Hopefully we can learn from this, and carry it out at Allegheny."

The Crusaders return to action this Sunday at defending North Coast Athletic Conference co-champion Allegheny. Kickoff is slated for 12 p.m. in Meadville, Pa.