Aug. 30, 2002

Box Score

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Junior Kelly Christoffer scored off a header in the 39th minute and assisted on Lisa Robishaw's goal in the 67th minute to lead the Bulldogs to a 2-0 opening night victory in front of a crowd of 521 at the Samford Soccer Field Friday night.

The crowd was the largest to watch a soccer match at Samford and the home crowd witnessed sophomore goal keeper Crystal Royall's first career shutout. Christoffer got the game-winning goal to give her four career game winners. Her last three goals have all been game winners.

"Kelly was the backbone of this team tonight, she won every ball in the air and played with great composure," said head coach Todd Yelton.

"I was so pumped about the crowd. It was awesome they were chanting and had air horns. It really got us going. The support really helped us tonight," said Christoffer

Christoffer's goal came off a cross from senior Kellie Carmichael. It was Carmichael's second career assist. Robishaw's second half goal put the game out of reach for the Bulldogs. Christoffer sent a ball into the box that Robishaw slid past Western goal keeper Amy Uhlman.

"I thought our young players handled the pressure very well and did exactly what we asked of them. We played 21 kids tonight without a drop off. The depth of this team is going to be a strength throughout the season," said Yelton

Samford will return to action on Tuesday, Sept. 3, against Birmingham-Southern. Kick off will be at 7 p.m. at the Samford Soccer Field.