LIVINGSTON, Ala. – A pair of goals from Nicola Gibson leads the University of West Alabama women's soccer team to the first win in school history – a 2-1 victory of Judson College. A strong and raucous crowd of 1,011 were on hand at Tiger Stadium to witness the program's first win.

“Everyone was fantastic tonight,” UWA head coach Graeme Orr said. “Everyone has been talking about it around campus. There are too many people to thank, but it was great to have Dr. and Mrs. Holland here tonight along with others member of the administration. I would to thank everyone for coming out including the students and giving us great support tonight.”

The game clincher came in the 82nd minute of play as Gibson sailed a free kick of the head and out-stretched hands of JC goal keeper Rachel Walker. Gibson attempted just three shots on the evening.

“I was in the same position as the first shot,” Gibson said about the game winner. “Coach said to go for the corner, but I decided to go for the shot. Coach always knows best though. It was a great night for us and a team effort. It was a great win.”

UWA threatened early and often in the first half, but found the score tied after the opening stanza. The Tigers attempted 16 shots on the night with 10 coming on goal. UWA's back line held the Eagles to just four shots over the 90 minutes with three on goal. Jess Martin (1-0) gathered a pair of saves for her first win in goal.

The Red and White kept the pressure on in the second half and finally at the 56th minute Gibson broke the deadlock on an unassisted free kick. However the celebration was short lived by the Red and White and the faithful on hand as the Eagles Stephanie Lansdon took advantage of a misplayed touch outside the UWA box to score in the 78th minute of the contest.

“I thought it was fabulous tonight. I am thrilled,” stated Orr. “I thought the girls showed great determination after giving up a goal late. That is one thing that we talked about being important this season – especially with it being our first year. It was great to get a win over such a tough and experienced team.”

Three Tigers took multiple shots on goal during the match with Vicky Petrova leading the way with three. Nicki Gears and Gibson recorded the other two. Walker (0-1) tallied eight saves on the evening for JC while Lisa Dundone led the team in shot attempts with two.

West Alabama returns to action on Sunday, Sept. 4 as the Tigers travel to Montevallo. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.

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