The University of Georgia women’s soccer team secured its first Southeastern Conference victory of the season with a 1-0 shutout against Vanderbilt on Sunday at the Vanderbilt Soccer Complex. Powered by Summer Denigan’s first-half goal and standout goalkeeping from Jordan Brown, the Bulldogs improved to 5-3-2 overall and 1-1-0 in SEC play, while Vanderbilt suffered its first loss of the season, falling to 5-1-3 (0-1-1 SEC).
In the 17th minute, Denigan provided the match’s lone goal with her fifth score of the season, taking advantage of an assist from junior Cate Hardin. Denigan, who has now scored in consecutive games, tied for 10th in Georgia’s program history with her sixth career game-winning goal.
Facing constant pressure from Vanderbilt, goalkeeper Jordan Brown played a pivotal role for Georgia, making nine saves—her second-highest total of the season. Brown’s performance helped the Bulldogs overcome Vanderbilt’s 18-10 shot advantage, including a 9-5 edge in shots on target.
Vanderbilt’s offensive pressure was intense, as they earned a season-high 12 corner kicks against the Bulldogs. However, Georgia’s defense, led by captains Ellie Gilbert and Nicole Vernis who both played the full 90 minutes, held firm, securing Brown’s 16th career shutout.
In the sweltering Nashville heat, which pushed the heat index over 100 degrees, Georgia used 23 players to maintain fresh legs, matching the number of players utilized in their earlier matchup against Kennesaw State on August 25. Denigan led the team with four shots, while graduate midfielder Dasia Torbert added three of her own.
Georgia will look to build on their SEC momentum in their next match as they continue their conference schedule.
