The stage was set for a thrilling showdown at the Grizzly Soccer Complex, as two nationally ranked NAIA teams clashed on Saturday afternoon. But it was No. 3 William Carey University who emerged victorious, using a pair of first-half goals to hand No. 24 Georgia Gwinnett College a tough 2-0 defeat.
The Crusaders (5-1-0) struck early with Kokona Nishikawa’s unassisted goal in the 16th minute, and Esalenna Galekhutle added a crucial insurance goal just before halftime, converting a perfect cross from Alyssia Davis in the 40th minute. Georgia Gwinnett (4-2-1) dug in defensively and limited William Carey to just seven shot attempts in the second half—a rare feat for a Crusaders team known for piling on the goals in the latter 45 minutes. In fact, it was only the sixth time in four seasons that William Carey failed to score in the second half.
GGC Shines Defensively in Second Half
Junior goalkeeper Ayano Kurosawa was a brick wall for the Grizzlies, setting a new career high with 11 saves. Kurosawa’s outstanding performance kept the match within reach and followed her strong showing against No. 16 SCAD Savannah, where she recorded 10 saves in a 1-1 draw earlier in the season.
On the attacking front, junior Kendra Davis led GGC with two shots on goal, while senior Ola Orelesi and junior Natalie Maguire each took two shots of their own. Despite five of GGC’s eight shots being on target, William Carey’s defense stood firm, denying the Grizzlies any chance to break through.
Coach’s Corner:
Head Coach Dr. Mike Giuliano praised his team’s effort, especially their second-half performance. “William Carey scores twice as many goals in the second halves of their games after making great halftime adjustments. The fact that we controlled play during stretches of the second half says a lot about the effort our team put out there today,” Giuliano said. “If we can pressure a team like William Carey, we can do it against anyone.”
Goals:
16’ – Kokona Nishikawa (WCU), unassisted
40’ – Esalenna Galekhutle (WCU), assisted by Alyssia Davis
Shots: William Carey outshot GGC 20-8.
Saves: Ayano Kurosawa made a career-high 11 saves for GGC.
Corners: The Grizzlies earned three corner kicks.
What’s Next:
The Grizzlies (4-2-1) will look to rebound as they head to Atlanta to face NCAA Division III Oglethorpe University on Wednesday, September 18, at 7 p.m. With plenty of positives from their second half showing, GGC is ready to get back in the win column!
