Freshmen were key in the Bulldogs' season opening 3-1 victory over Kent State. Freshman Anja Savich led the way with two goals and freshman Morgan Kloosterman also put one in the back of the net.

"Our culture builds our freshmen up and lets them play with freedom and confidence," Co-head coach Tari St. John said following the match. "Morgan's goal was the first touch of her college career and you won't see too many goals as great as Anja's first of the night."

Butler struck first in the ninth minute after Cassidy Blacha served a ball into the box for Savich. The forward made no mistake as she put the ball in the right corner of the net for the first goal of her career.

Less than four minutes later, Kent State evened the score as Isabelle Mihail chipped the ball over goalkeeper Hannah Luedtke off a pass from Maddie Holmes.

Butler controlled the first half, outshooting Kent State eight to one, with three shots on goal for the Bulldogs. The stalemate was broken in the 40^th minute when Annika Schmidt threw the ball into the box and was finished by Kloosterman.

A two goal lead was all goalkeeper Leonie Doege needed as she came in at the start of the second half and posted a clean sheet to bring the victory home. Butler continued to control the game, putting up 10 more shots in the second half, with four on frame.

The lone goal in the second half belonged to Savich, her second goal in a Butler jersey, off an assist from Paige Monaghan.

Kent State only took two shots in the second half, with one on goal. Faith O'Neill took the loss in goal for the Flashes, allowing all three goals.

"We played against a difficult opponent tonight. They presented challenges we have yet to see through our exhibitions," St. John said. "It will be no surprise if Kent State goes on to have another championship season."

"We are proud of our team's composure to see out the win. I think we are in a great position to recover and prepare for another defending conference champion in IUPUI."

The Bulldogs move to 1-0 and are back in action on Monday, Aug. 20 at home against IUPUI. Kickoff is set for 7PM.