BUIES CREEK, N.C. - Towson (4-4-6) secured a crucial 3-2 road victory over Campbell (4-6-4) on Thursday afternoon at Eakes Athletics Complex, with Sophie Thibeault scoring twice to lead the Tigers to their first win in three matches.
Samantha Witte opened the scoring for Campbell in the 5th minute, capitalizing on a combination play from Mia Fairchild and Ella Wineka. Towson responded through Kale'a Perry in the 17th minute, with assists from Sophie Thibeault and Emely Rubio. The back-and-forth continued as Ava Kanaar put Campbell ahead in the 19th minute off Samantha Witte's service, before Thibeault equalized in the 22nd minute from Rubio's setup. Thibeault completed her brace in the 32nd minute, assisted by Perry, giving Towson the decisive 3-2 advantage.
The first half showcased both teams' attacking prowess, with Campbell recording seven shots to Towson's six. The Camels earned five corner kicks in the opening period, demonstrating their ability to create set-piece opportunities. Towson goalkeeper Sydney Feiler made four crucial saves before the break to keep her team in contention, while Campbell's defensive unit, led by Zahra Fepessi, worked to contain the Tigers' counter-attacks.
The second half saw Campbell push aggressively for an equalizer, with Abby Connolly recording three shots in the final 45 minutes. A tactical shift in the 60th minute saw Campbell introduce fresh attackers, with Ava Kanaar making way for additional offensive firepower. Towson's Sophie Thibeault received a yellow card in the 63rd minute for unsporting behavior, but the Tigers' defense held firm despite increased pressure.
Final statistics reflected Campbell's territorial advantage, as they outshot Towson 18-14 with 11 shots on target compared to Towson's 6. The Camels also dominated set pieces with 9 corner kicks to Towson's 2. Sydney Feiler finished with 9 saves for Towson, while Campbell's goalkeeper recorded 3 saves in the losing effort.
Individual performances highlighted the competitive nature of the match. Sophie Thibeault's two-goal performance proved decisive for Towson, while Kale'a Perry contributed a goal and an assist. For Campbell, Samantha Witte's early goal and assist demonstrated her offensive impact, while Abby Connolly's persistent second-half pressure kept Towson's defense under duress.
Tactically, Towson's ability to absorb pressure and strike on the counter proved effective, particularly in transition moments that led to their goals. Campbell's high-pressing approach created numerous chances, evidenced by their shot advantage, but ultimately lacked the finishing touch to equalize in the second half.
The victory moves Towson to .500 on the season, snapping a brief winless streak and providing momentum ahead of their upcoming match at Elon. For Campbell, the loss extends their winless run to three matches, though their offensive output suggests positive signs moving forward.
Both teams face quick turnarounds with matches on October 19. Towson travels to face Elon, while Campbell hosts Drexel in what promises to be crucial conference matchups for both programs. The Tigers will look to build on this road victory, while the Camels aim to reverse their recent form and return to winning ways.