Eastern University Women's Soccer hit the ground running with three first half goals to improve to 2-1 on the year with a 3-0 non-conference win. Junior midifielder Ashley Hackman led the way for the Eagles with a goal and a pair of assists.

The five-hour bus ride didn't show its effects early as Hackman scored in the first minute of the match to put the visitors up early. Fellow junior Chrissy West started the action as she headed a bouncing ball to Jill DiRenzo's feet near midfield. DiRenzo clipped a ball in behind the Crusader defense for Hackman. Hackman didn't let the chance escape as she pushed a low shot left for her first goal of the year.

After the opening goal, the Eagles let the game get a bit ragged, as they struggled to keep rhythm or possession in the game. Even so, the visitors were still able to find scoring opportunities as West and Kara Neef each served dangerous balls into the area from the right side. The game changed just over midway through the half when West picked up a loose ball and fed Hackman on her way to the corner. Hackman squared up her defender made a move and whipped a right-footed serve into the box. DiRenzo ran onto the serve and nodded home her third tally of the year to double the Eastern advantage.

At that point, the Eagle sstarted to move the ball with efficiency and purpose. Just over ten mintues later Hackman slid a through ball into space on the left side for West. The speedy junior raced onto the ball and slotted home her third goal of the year.

The second half saw the visitors work the ball into dangerous areas with several near misses and several good saves from Crusader goalkeeper Meredith Tompeck kept the Eagles from increasing their lead. Amanda Daveler earned the shut out in goal for the Eagles.

Coach Mouw said of his team's effort, "I was really pleased with our focus throughout the game. The team was able to turn a tough situation into a positive, as we came off the bus with unified purpose and good attention. The early goal was great, but I think we actually put some of our best stuff together in the second half. Heidi [Peachey] and Lauren [Roe] were fantastic in the middle of the field today, and they were the ones who were able to settle us into a better rhythm for the game. We are looking forward to a big early season conference test Tuesday night."

The Eagles travel to Misericordia University for their conference opener at 7:00 Tuesday night. The Cougars, the defending PAC Champions, were picked second in the PAC Preseason poll.