TWU Advances in NAIA Women's Soccer Tournament

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - A stout defense has been Tennessee Wesleyan's calling card all season, and it was even more evident on Thursday in its 1-0 win over Oregon Tech in the first round of the NAIA Women's Soccer Championship.

With the win, Tennessee Wesleyan advances in the West Palm Beach (Fla.) Bracket and will face No. 3 seed Keiser on Saturday at 11 am ET.

Following a scoreless first half, Tennessee Wesleyan netted the game's lone goal in the 58th minute. However, the goal almost did not happen. Tennessee Wesleyan was awarded a penalty kick after a foul by Oregon Tech in the box. Krista Eik Hardardottir stepped up to the spot, but her shot was saved. Yet, the center referee blew his whistle before play resumed, signaling the Oregon Tech goalkeeper left early and awarding a re-kick.

This time, defender Lauryn Smith took the opportunity and buried it for the 1-0 lead.

The goal is Smith's first of the season.

Tennessee Wesleyan limited Oregon Tech to two shots on goal, and Laia Roch Font saved both of them.