SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (October 20, 2007) – Junior Kayla Thibeault (Lebanon, Conn.) scored the game-winning goal in the 63rd minute of play to lead the Springfield College women' soccer team over Wellesley College, 2-0, this afternoon at Brock-Affleck Field at the Irv Schmid Sports Complex.

Springfield, ranked 21st nationally, is now 14-2 overall, 7-1 in the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference. Wellesley is now 6-7-2 overall, 2-5-1 in the conference.

With this win, Springfield finished undefeated at home at 11-0 during the regular season, allowing just one goal at home all season long.

The second goal of the game came off of the foot of senior forward Nicole Hanewich (Smithfield, R.I.) in the 75th minute on an assist from senior midfielder Katie Gates (Amherst, Mass.),

The Pride outshot Wellesley, 18-3, while putting nine shots on goal. Springfield had many opportunities to score in the first half, but the game entered halftime scoreless. Thibeault broke the tie with her goal that snuck under the Wellesley College goalkeeper.

Springfield junior goalkeeper Sue Jenney (Agawam, Mass.) recorded one save in the win, while Wellesley sophomore goalkeeper Katie Mantore recorded seven saves. This was Senior Day for SC's Nicole Hanewich, Katie Gates, and Lindsay Bugbee (West Granby, Conn.), who all received recognition prior to the game for their hard work and dedication throughout the years.

The Pride next plays at WPI on Tuesday, October 23 at 7:00 pm. Wellesley, meanwhile, will host Smith College on Tuesday, October 23 at 3:00 pm.

published: 10/20/2007