MCKENZIE, Tenn. – The Bethel Lady Wildcat Soccer squad opened their season Tuesday at home hosting Delta State. The match had been scheduled in Cleveland, Mississippi but due to flooding in the area the match was moved to McKenzie. Bethel beat the Lady Statemen 5-1.
The Lady Wildcats took a 1-0 lead on a 1st period goal by Danijela Kolaric. Janine Dennis was credited with the assist. Bethel led at the break 1-0. The two reversed roles in the second period on a goal by Dennis and assist by Kolaric. Dennis added another goal on an assist from Catherine Hatch. Elvira Martin made it 4-0 with a late second period goal. After an assist from Martin, Dennis made it a hat trick with her 3rd goal of the night. Kimberly Fruin allowed DSU to avoid the shutout with a score in the waning minutes.
Bethel had a 12-5 advantage in shots and a 7-5 mark in shots on goal. Shanay Ricketts recorded four saves for the Lady Wildcats.
The Lady Cats lead the all-time series between the two programs 3-1. DSU counted the contest as a preseason scrimmage. It was first meeting between the two since Bethel beat the Lady Statesmen in McKenzie in 2011.
Bethel travels to Texas A & M University-Texarkana Friday for a 7 p.m. match.
Bethel plays Cumberland University in their home opener on September 4.
