HIGH POINT, N.C. – The UNC Greensboro (UNCG) women's soccer team began the 2026 season with a 1-0 victory over Triad foe High Point on Thursday night at Vert Stadium.
The Panthers saw the first shot of the game in the second minute of action, but the Spartans responded with three of their own. One of the three was on goal from
Merle Greulich.
Both teams had offensive mindsets in the first half, but UNCG held the shot advantage, 6-4, in the 35
th minute. The Spartans sent in a throw in in their attacking third and
Bianca Patik found space before
Laney Smith dumped the ball to
Bryanna Parkes. Parkes struck the ball from about 25 yards out for a goal that sailed under the crossbar for a 1-0 lead at 34:37.
At the end of the half, UNCG had an 8-5 shot advantage. The Spartans' defense, including freshman
Blythe Clark stayed alert in the second half. Clark made three tremendous saves, including one in the final minutes of action that she punched over the crossbar, bringing her total to four saves in a shutout win.
BEYOND THE BOX SCORE
- The last time UNCG claimed a season-opening win was 2023.
- This was the second-straight win for the Spartans over the Panthers.
- Parkes scored the first goal of the season for UNCG and earned her second-career tally.
- Smith registered her first-collegiate point with the assist.
- Clark, in her first collegiate start in net, had four saves and the win.
RECORDS
UNCG: 1-0
HPU: 0-1
PURCHASE UNCG GEAR
Click here for your one-stop shop for all of your official UNCG merchandise! From apparel to accessories, there is something for everyone!
WHAT'S NEXT
UNCG will host in-state foe East Carolina on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 6:00 p.m. at UNCG Soccer Stadium. Prior to the game the Spartans will recognize their six seniors.
