LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama women's soccer team opened its home season with a 2-1 victory over Auburn University Montgomery at Tiger Stadium on Thursday.

West Alabama extends its win streak to three and improves to 3-1 overall, while Auburn Montgomery falls to 2-4.  

"There's nothing better than opening up at home with a win," said UWA head coach Graeme Orr.

"We showed a lot of positives tonight and a few things we need to tweak.  I thought we had great energy. We were able to use our depth in the bench and, I thought we utilized that well. I was just a little disappointed that we didn't capitalize on a few more of our chances. Most important thing is, though, that we created chances."

Mara DeLuca netted her first collegiate goal in the 42^nd minute that proved the game winner and gave UWA a 2-0 lead at the break. Nicki Gears put the Tigers on the board in the 34^th minute with her third goal of the season; 37^th career.

The Tigers utilized its depth with 11 substitutes getting minutes. Tori Brook came off the bench to create one assist. Lauren Tate assisted on the DeLuca's goal.

West Alabama totaled 16-for-26 shots on-goal, while holding AUM to five total shots. Gears framed 10 shots on-goal.  

The Warhawks lone goal came in the 80^th minute from Lila Remache unassisted. It was Remache's third score of the year.

Tiger goalkeeper Issy Foster (2-1) picked up the win while sharing the second half with Anna Eastis. Foster and Eastis combined for three saves. Chloe Crook (2-4) took the loss in the net for AUM while making 12 saves.  

"The most important thing about tonight is that we got some positives to take into Sunday's game," Orr said. "We needed to know the bounces and speed of our turf again. Hopefully Sunday we'll put together a great performance."

The Tigers will open up Gulf South Conference action against Alabama-Huntsville Sunday at 3:30 p.m. in Tiger Stadium.