University Center, Mich. – Alex Johnson broke a scoreless tie in the 90^thminute of play to propel the Maryville University women's soccer team to a 1-0 victory over Saginaw Valley State Friday afternoon at Braddock Field. This is the first time since 2016 that the Saints have opened the season with a victory.

What Happened – The game was a defensive battle from the opening whistle as neither team could score over the first 89 minutes. The Cardinals had a chance to score in the 84^thminute as they placed a shot the grazed off the far post. Maryville took advantage of break-away down the left side as Amanda Kaltwasser found Johnson on the right side of the 6-yard box and Johnson lifted a shot into the upper left corner of the net with 40 seconds remaining to give the Saints a 1-0 lead.
 
Inside the Numbers – The Cardinals out-shot Maryville 17-8 in the contest, with each team placing four shots on goal. Mariah Loya and Claudia King each had two shots apiece in the contest to pace Maryville. Elyse Waterhouse earned her first win of the year with four saves on the day.
 
Records – Maryville – 1-0-0
                  Saginaw Valley State – 0-1-0
 
Up Next – The Saints return to the pitch Sunday, Sept. 15 at noon as Maryville plays host to Missouri S&T in Great Lakes Valley Conference play at Maryville Field.