It’s been a heck of a ride for the UNC women’s soccer team so far this season.
The Heels currently sport a record of six wins and three ties, with the most recent result being a 1-0 defeat of Virginia Tech last Friday night. Carolina’s beaten two ranked teams – #7 South Carolina (2-1), and #11 Arkansas (3-1) – plus tied #4 Penn State (0-0) and #9 Alabama (1-1).
As a result of their early success, UNC currently sits atop the United Soccer Coaches’ Poll. The Heels are ahead of powers Stanford and Florida State (three national championships each), plus last year’s champion, UCLA.
No doubt about it.#GoHeels x #23in23 pic.twitter.com/QSWAAnwwBu
— UNC Women's Soccer (@uncwomenssoccer) September 19, 2023
Players are dominating on both sides of the ball. Senior Avery Patterson leads five multi-goal scorers with four tallies, while freshman Melina Rebimbas anchors the passing attack with three assists (four players have multiple).
Opponents have only scored four goals on the Tar Heels – that’s a combination of rock-solid defense and four shutouts from goalkeeper Emmie Allen. UNC’s most impressive defensive streak came in late August, when it shutout Wisconsin, USC and Gardner-Webb in back-to-back-to-back clashes.
After the 3-game shutout streak, Carolina only allowed three total goals to three ranked SEC teams in Arkansas, South Carolina and Alabama.
UNC has another tough test coming up, as it travels to #22 UVA on Thursday night. The Heels lead the all-time series 16-5-4, but lost 3-2 last year in Chapel Hill.
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