FORT MYERS, Fla. – Florida Gulf Coast University women's soccer secured a 3-1 victory Thursday over Kennesaw State at Pickering Field.
"Great result and three big points," head coach Jim Blankenship said. "Proud of how the ladies played and being able to close out a good Kennesaw team."
FGCU (7-4-1, 4-1 ASUN) found the back of the net three times for its highest offensive output since a 4-0 win over Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi back on Aug. 25.
Kendal Gargiula, Katelyn Kauffman and Katharina Oelschlaeger each produced a goal for the Eagles Thursday.
Gargiula produced the first scoring strike of the night in the 18th minute, redirecting a corner opportunity at the back post from Erika Zschuppe and Lauren Dwyer. The goal gives Gargiula a team-leading six goals this season.
FGCU scored its second goal off another set piece. At the 31-minute mark, Kauffman headed in an oncoming corner from Ashley Labbe for her first goal of the season.
Kennesaw State (1-7-4, 0-4-1 ASUN) answered in the 33rd minute to draw within one, 2-1.
FGCU took a 2-1 lead heading into the break and added some separation in the 49th minute as Gargiula stole a defensive cross and set up Oelschlaeger to make it 3-1 Eagles.
Goalkeeper Olivia Molina snagged six second-half saves to preserve the victory and stifled KSU's comeback chances. The Owls edged the Eagles in shots, 15-14, with eight on goal.
The Eagles return to the pitch Sunday to host Queens (N.C.) at Pickering Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
