The Salem University women's soccer team celebrated Senior Day with a 4-1 victory over the University of Cincinnati-Clermont on Wednesday afternoon at The Bridge Sports Complex. After giving up an early goal, the Tigers responded with three unanswered goals in the first half before adding another in the second to secure the win in their final regular-season home match.
UC Clermont struck first in the ninth minute, taking an early 1-0 lead. However, Salem quickly found its rhythm and began putting pressure on the Cougars' defense.
In the 19th minute, Gabriella Briceno Cajiao got the Tigers on the board with an unassisted goal to tie the match at 1-1. Salem kept the momentum going just three minutes later when Emily Sullivan found the back of the net off an assist from Briceno Cajiao, giving the Tigers their first lead of the afternoon.
Salem wasn't finished yet. In the 25th minute, Dayana Martinez extended the lead to 3-1 after connecting on a pass from Tomina Rihpa. The Tigers carried their two-goal advantage into halftime.
The second half saw Salem continue to battle on both ends of the field. The Tigers' defense worked to limit UC Clermont's scoring opportunities while the offense continued looking for ways to extend the lead.
Alissa Brixander started in goal for Salem and recorded nine saves before Chloe Owens took over midway through the second half. Owens stepped in and helped close out the match, recording a save of her own as the Tigers kept the Cougars scoreless for the remainder of the afternoon.
Salem added one final goal in the 78th minute, putting the finishing touches on its 4-1 Senior Day victory.
Briceno Cajiao led the offensive effort with a goal and an assist, while Sullivan and Martinez each contributed a goal. Martinez finished with a team-high six shots, including three on goal.
The Tigers recorded 13 shots on the afternoon, with six on target. Brixander and Owens combined for 10 saves as Salem's defense held UC Clermont to just one goal.
Wednesday's match was more than just another regular-season contest for the Tigers, as Salem took time to recognize its seniors for their dedication and contributions to the program. The Tigers were able to make their final home appearance of the regular season a memorable one, sending their seniors off with a victory.
With the win, Salem improves to 6-5-5 on the season.
Up Next
The Tigers will close out their regular season on Tuesday, November 3, when they travel to Bluefield State University for a 1 p.m. matchup.
