DURANGO, CO - August 23, 2007 - The Fort Lewis College women's soccer team defeated visiting Eastern New Mexico 5-2 this afternoon in their 2007 season opener.

With one freshman in the starting lineup and two others receiving significant playing time, the newcomers earned 10 of the Skyhawks 15 points (one goal = two points, one assist = one point). Hayley Hollenga (Colorado Springs/Air Academy) scored two goals and handed out an assist in her first start for the Skyhawks, while Sara Egbom (Albuquerque, NM/Hope Christian) netter two more.

Just one minute and 54 seconds into play, the Preseason RMAC Freshman of the Year, Hayley Hollenga scored her first goal as a Skyhawk off a centering pass from senior Kelly Smith (Chino Valley, AZ/Chino Valley).

The Zias of Eastern New Mexico tied it twenty minutes later, but in 28th minute Hollenga scored her second goal of the half off a pass from fellow freshman Ericka Schisler (Durango/Durango).

The Skyhawks capped the first half with another freshman-to-freshman score when Hollenga passed to Egbom who scored the Skyhawks third goal and game-winner.

"It was great to see the freshman come out and perform this well in just the first game," said head women's soccer coach Damian Clarke. Along with the team's first win of the season came Clarke's first win as a collegiate head coach.

Fort Lewis increased their lead to 4-1 when Lorin Anderson (Durango/Durango) scored off a Jamie MacArthur (Albuquerque, NM/New Mexico) centering pass.

Eastern New Mexico got back into the game with a goal in the 72nd minute to bring the Skyhawks' lead back within two, but with under three minutes to play Egbom sealed the victory with her second of the game. Smith recorded her second assist of the day.

The Skyhawks open the season with the win and return to action on Sunday, August 26th at Noon when they take on Montana State-Billings at Dirks Field.

Box Score