The American University women's soccer team knocked off Patriot League foe Lehigh in its conference opener, 1-0, as the Eagles celebrated Phil Reeves Day Junior forward Erin Mulhern came through with the game-winner, just 1:02 into the second half.

After controlling play for much of the initial stanza, the Eagles (3-6-0, 1-0-0) went ahead early in the second after rookie Marley Jennings set up Mulhern for her first goal of the season. The AU defense took care of the rest, holding the Mountain Hawks (2-3-1, 0-1-0) off the scoreboard.

"We played well today, executing offensively. Although we had several other chances we could have capitalized on, we are happy to pick up the win in our league opener," said head coach Anabel Jimenez Hering. "Our defense stepped up down the stretch for an important win. We can definitely take this experience with the remainder of the season.

Lehigh outshot American, 14-9, posting nine shots of their own in the second half, but the AU defense anchored by center back Kirsten Eriksen helped the Eagles to their third shutout of the season.

Junior goalkeeper Charlene Belanger made five saves in the match, registering her second win of the year, and her first shutout.

It was a physical game as the two teams combined for 15 fouls in the contest.

The Eagles will look to keep the momentum going on Wednesday, September 25, when AU hosts the Spiders of Richmond at 4 p.m.