COLUMBUS, Ga. — Florida Southern College women's soccer (1-0-0) opened the 2026 season with a 3-2 victory over Columbus State University (0-1-0) on Thursday at the Walden Soccer Complex.
The Moccasins capitalized on a strong first half, scoring all three of its goals before halftime. Tonight's win against the Cougars also marked the first FSC win for head coach
Maddi Moon.
Florida Southern began the first period assertively, with
Hayden Johnston opening the scoring at the 16:24 mark. The early goal set the tone for Florida Southern's offensive display, as
Hadyn Ealey extended the lead to 2-0 in the 22nd minute on a penalty kick, the first collegiate goal of her career.
Continuing their aggressive approach, Florida Southern quickly capitalized again, with
Ellie Dossantos finding the back of the net in the 24th minute to make it 3-0, also her first collegiate goal. The visiting team maintained control throughout the period, effectively managing possession and defending against the Cougars' attempts. The period concluded with Florida Southern holding a 3-0 advantage.
The second period began with Florida Southern maintaining its attacking pressure, as Dossantos fired a shot early on, though it was saved by Ashlyn Valentine.
Carly Brodsky stood firm in goal, making crucial saves to deny Columbus State's Kendal Coreil and Amelia Johnson. Florida Southern continued to create opportunities, with
Aliya Roberts and Ealey both testing the Columbus State goalkeeper.
Despite the defensive efforts, the Cougars found the back of the net in the 64th minute on a penalty. Florida Southern responded with continued offensive pressure, but a foul just outside the box gave way for a CSU goal to narrow the FSC lead. Florida Southern held firm to preserve its lead, concluding the game with a 3-2 victory.
Brodsky recorded five saves, including four in the second period, to secure a win for FSC. Dossantos scored the game-winning goal and finished with three shots on goal. Ealey added to the team's scoring with one goal, converting both of her shots into shots on goal. Johnston also contributed with a goal and led the Mocs with four shots.
Kendal Coreil led Columbus State with five shots, two of which were on goal. Mia Robinson and Brianna Nguyen each scored a goal, as goalkeeper Ashlyn Valentine finished with two saves.
The next challenge for Florida Southern College is a road matchup against Georgia Southwestern State University on Saturday, Aug. 29, at noon.Â
