BALTIMORE, Md. —The Notre Dame Gators played host to the Clarks Summit Defenders on Saturday afternoon for their Colonial States Athletic Conference opener. The Gators also celebrated their three seniors Colette Pierce, Loren Pardoe, and Hannah Woodworthfor an early senior day.
 
Notre Dame started off hot with pressure in the offensive third. In the 20th minute after a coaching change to redefine the attack the Gators had a chance to score. A through ball was played by sophomore Kayla Grubeto perfectly split the defense. Pierce had the tactical awareness and used her blazing speed to outpace the back line and score on a breakaway.
 
A mix of other Gators had early opportunities before they broke through again on a cross by Grube that was knocked in by freshman Sara Morales.
 
With a 2-0 lead after half Notre Dame only wanted more. The Defenders kept pace but couldn't break through the defense of Woodworth and sophomore Andreina Franco-Ramos.
 
Pierce added her second goal of the game on a pure breakaway by beating multiple defenders then the goalkeeper.
 
For the final goal junior Madison Stoner placed in an excellent ball on a corner kick at the 67th mark in the half. Sophomore Cesia Diaz made a perfect run into the box and opened herself up to put away the goal and extend the lead to 4-0. The goal was the first in her career.
 
While not officially in the scorebook for the day Pardoe was not left out of the fun. She had an excellent scoring chance on a header but couldn't convert alongside her fellow seniors toward the end of the game.
 
In goal freshman Myla Young completed the shut out, her 4th of the season as the Gators move to 5-3 on the season.
 
WHAT'S NEXT?
The Gators will head to Cairn to face the Highlanders for more CSAC action on Saturday after a week off.
 
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