The Guelph Gryphons Women's soccer team defeated the visiting Waterloo Warriors today (Sept. 1) 1-0 to start off a fresh season.
 
Opening the game with a strong offensive front, the Gryphons were able to maintain possession for the majority of the half.  Largely thanks to excellent tackling on all fronts, the Gryphons exerted continuous pressure in the Warrior half but were unable to monopolize on the numerous opportunities created. 
 
Excellent footwork and smart play combined to prevent any Waterloo chances while the Gryphons were able to lead Courtney Whiteside (Guelph, ON) and Erica Bain (Niagara Falls, ON) into the Waterloo end for a combined six shots on net. 
 
Leading into the second half, there were several substitutions that allowed for continuous pressure in the Waterloo end.  With Breanna Hall (Ottawa) stepping into the forward squad, the Gryphons continued to dominate throughout the second half.  Yet it was following Whiteside's re-entry to the game late in the half that allowed for a successful strike at net in the 81^st minute, leading to a Whiteside header to put the Gryphons up 1-0.  The opportunity was created by Alexandra Lundhild (Mississauga, ON) and allowed the Gryphons to take their first win in regulation.
 
The Gryphon strong play in the preseason has carried over to the regular season with rookie Keeper Alexandra King's first shutout in OUA regulation. 
 
The Gryphon Women's team hopes to build on this success in their game tomorrow (Sept. 2) against the Laurier Goldenhawks.  The game is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at the Gryphon Soccer Complex.