Fast Start Propels Thomas More To Big Win Over Tigers

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio - The Thomas More Saints ambushed the Wittenberg Tigers in the 2014 season opener, putting five goals on the board in a stunning 27-minute span in the first half en route to a 6-1 road victory.

The Saints jumped on top on an unassisted goal in the eighth minute and then broke the game open with a pair of goals 27 seconds apart. First, Thomas More's Emily Sanker curled a free kick into the Wittenberg goal from an extreme angle, then Olivia Huber netted her second score of the first half on a breakaway.

After Tiger freshman Emma Hawthorn (Dayton, Ohio/Chaminade Julienne) pulled Wittenberg back within one goal in the 19th minute, the barrage continued. Thomas More added goals in the 29th and 35th minutes to take a commanding 5-1 advantage into the intermission. Junior Kate Burns () was credited with the assist on Hawthorn's goal after her shot rung off the post and Hawthorn one-timed the rebound into the net.

The Saints held a 13-3 advantage in shots in the first half, but Wittenberg was credited with a 7-2 edge in scoring opportunities over the final 45 minutes. The Tigers were unable to break through for another goal in the second half, however, while Thomas More scored its final goal in the 65th minute.

Hawthorn, Burns, senior Tobie Weston (Worthington, Ohio/Worthington Christian) and senior Chelsey Marcum (Centerville, Ohio/Centerville) each finished with two shots in the game to lead Wittenberg. In goal, freshman Alexa Murrietta (Las Vegas, Nev./Shadow Ridge) made five saves, all in the first half.

Written By: Ryan Maurer