Freshman Tareyn Blanton scored her first collegiate goal in the 41st minute, which proved to be the difference as the Texas A&M University-Commerce women's soccer team started its season with a 1-0 win over Tusculum.
A&M-Commerce (1-0) started its season with a win for the fourth-straight season, including the third shutout. Junior Randi Hafele made three saves for the shutout.
Tusculum (0-1), who advanced to the 2009 NCAA Tournament, saw its best opportunity come about in the 11th minute when a Kourtney Kavic shot had to be cleared by senior defender Megan Monroe in front of the Pioneers' goal. They also had an opportunity in the 65th minute when a Jenique Thombs shot hit the post.
The Bedford, Texas native took a throw-in from junior Devon Herrman down the right side of the A&M-Commerce soccer complex to the top left post past the Pioneers' goalkeeper for the goal.
Both teams had nine shots, including four from Herrman to lead the
A&M-Commerce attack in the win.
The Lions will return to action on the road when they face Dallas Baptist on Thursday at 7 p.m.
