BROOKLYN, N.Y. – There were many 'firsts' during the Fairfield University Women's Soccer team's opening 1-0 victory over LIU Brooklyn. Freshman Amy Akerley picked up her first career goal, which became her first collegiate game-winner. In her first match, rookie goalkeeper Aytana Muschajew made five saves and recorded her first career victory and shutout. And finally, after winning over 370 games at Illinois Wesleyan, Head Coach David Barrett picked up his first Fairfield victory.
 
And with that, the 2018 season has officially begun.
 
"I'm pleased with the result today," said Coach Barrett. "Winning the first one is always nice. We weren't perfect by any means but I'm thrilled the team found a way to grind out the win today."
 
Akerley's lone score provided the Stags (1-0) a 1-0 lead in the 48th minute. Fellow freshman Stephanie Tsangaris set up the score by taking a shot at the edge of the box that was deflected. Akerley was able to find space past her defender and unleashed the rebound into the back of the net.
 
The Stags would allow two LIU Brooklyn (0-1) opportunities a few minutes later when Marian Awad and Kimberly Butland fired shots on net, but both were stopped by Muschajew. In her first appearance in net, the rookie Muschajew picked up five saves, including a pair that required diving efforts. In total, she faced eight Blackbird shots.
 
The Fairfield midfield would not allow LIU Brooklyn to get a late chance as they held possession in the Stags' offensive half for the majority of the final 10 minutes. During that time, the Stags forced several takeaways in the midfield and also recorded two corner kicks.
 
Fairfield out-shot the Blackbirds 11-8 with each side picking up five on target. The Stags attempted nine corners compared to just four for the Blackbirds. Akerley tied the game-high in attempts for the Stags with Alex Madden also picking up three shots. Sophomore Liz Dumas put both of her attempts on target.
 
The Stags will head next head to Hempstead, N.Y., to challenge the reigning Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) champions Hofstra on Sunday at 1pm.
 
"We know Hofstra will be a really tough challenge on Sunday," said Barrett. "Getting our minds and bodies regenerated will be important in the next 36 hours."