High Point and Campbell Battle to Thrilling 2-2 Draw in Season Opener
Panthers remain unbeaten while Fighting Camels see two-game win streak snapped in entertaining affair
BUIES CREEK, NC – High Point University maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Campbell University at Home Stadium on Thursday evening, as both teams delivered an entertaining opener that showcased the competitive balance in women's college soccer.
The Panthers, improving to 2-0-1 on the young campaign, showed their resilience against a Campbell side that entered the match riding a two-game winning streak and sporting an impressive 2-1-0 record with a plus-two goal differential.
Campbell struck first in what would become a back-and-forth affair, with midfielder Avery Garrett finding the net to give the Fighting Camels an early advantage. The home side's attacking intent was evident from the opening whistle, as they would go on to outshoot High Point 11-6 and register seven shots on target compared to the visitors' three.
High Point's response came through midfielder Kari Powell, who converted one of her team's limited opportunities to level the score. Powell's clinical finish highlighted the Panthers' efficiency in front of goal, making the most of their chances despite being outplayed in terms of possession and territorial advantage.
The match's defining characteristic was Campbell's dominance in creating scoring opportunities. The Fighting Camels' attacking trio of Ava Kanaar, Mia Fairchild, and the goalscoring Garrett consistently troubled High Point's defense. Kanaar proved particularly influential, contributing an assist while registering two shots and one on target, demonstrating the kind of creative spark that had fueled Campbell's early-season success.
Campbell's second goal came courtesy of midfielder Susan Guzman, whose strike appeared to put the home side in control. Guzman's 79-minute performance was a testament to her endurance and work rate, as she covered significant ground in Campbell's engine room while contributing the crucial goal.
However, High Point's character shone through in the closing stages. Forward Courtney Andruczk emerged as the hero for the visitors, netting the equalizer that preserved their unbeaten record. Andruczk's goal, assisted by substitute Ellie Hammer, came at a crucial moment and demonstrated the Panthers' never-say-die attitude.
The tactical battle between the two sides was fascinating to observe. Campbell's approach centered on overwhelming High Point through sheer volume of attacks, with coach deploying a system that saw multiple players contribute to the creative process. Abby Connolly, Natalie Jamison, Ava Kanaar, and Samantha Witte all registered assists, showcasing the depth of Campbell's attacking threat.
High Point, by contrast, relied on defensive solidity and clinical finishing. Goalkeeper Aubrey McKessy played the full 90 minutes and made several crucial saves to keep her team in the contest, while the defensive unit marshaled by Montana-rose Currey, who played every minute, provided the foundation for their comeback.
The draw maintains High Point's impressive start to the season, with the Panthers having now collected seven points from their opening three fixtures. For Campbell, the result ends their winning streak but demonstrates their ability to compete with quality opposition on home soil.
Both teams face quick turnarounds with challenging fixtures ahead. Campbell will look to bounce back when they host William & Mary on Friday, while High Point travels to face UNC Charlotte in what promises to be another stern test of their credentials.
This encounter served as an early-season statement from both programs, highlighting the competitive depth in women's college soccer and setting the stage for what could be memorable campaigns for both the Panthers and Fighting Camels.
Key Players
- Kari Powell (High Point) - Scored crucial equalizer and was efficient with limited opportunities, converting her only shot on target - Avery Garrett (Campbell) - Opened the scoring and was instrumental in Campbell's attacking play with two shots and consistent pressure - Courtney Andruczk (High Point) - Match-saving hero with the late equalizer, showing composure when it mattered most