Box Score Waukesha, Wis. - The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse soccer team opened its 2014 season with a 2-1 victory at Carroll University (Wis.) Friday afternoon.  The Pioneers were also playing their season-opener.  It was the first meeting between the teams since 2009.  With the victory, UW-L tied the all-time series, 3-3-1. 

UW-L first-year head coach Jason Murphy earned his first career win at the helm of the Eagles.  "A great start to the season for the team," said Murphy. "It's always nice to get a win coming out of preseason."

After a scoreless first half, Rachel Rogahn gave UW-L a 1-0 lead at 54:14 with an assist from Nyssa Goeres.  Carroll came right back at 54:35 to tie the game with Stephanie Farrar scoring and Victoria Rivera recording the assist. 

The game remained tied until the Eagles' Ali Roberts scored at 70:46 to give UW-L a 2-1 advantage.  Heather Willems recorded the assist. 

"Always exciting when you get two first years in the stats with Rachel's goal and Nyssa's assist," said Murphy. "Ali Roberts played very well at right back and it is always great when a defender scores the game winner."

Taylor Tomczyk recorded five saves in her first career start at goalkeeper for UW-L.  Erica Patterson registered seven saves for Carroll.  UW-L finished with 10 shots in the game, including nine on goal, while Carroll recorded 12 shots with six on goal. 

"I was very pleased with Taylor in goal and our back four," added Murphy.  "Their organization helped us control the game.  Give credit to Carroll, we were taxed at the end and working hard to finish the match.  Our communication was very good as a team."

UW-L returns to action Sunday, August 31 hosting Wartburg College (Iowa) at 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex.