CASTLETON, Vt. – Vermont State University Castleton women's soccer opened the 2024 season with a 2-0 victory over Norwich at Dave Wolk Stadium on Sunday.

Junior Maggie McKearin got the Spartans going by intercepting a ball from a Norwich defender and playing a through ball to Alexis Billings, who chipped it over the keeper to open the scoring for Castleton in the 16th minute. 

Castleton's defense, led by sophomores Kristina O'Neil and Gwen Bridges, limited the Cadets' possession and continued to keep Norwich scoreless against the Spartans since 2010. Junior Emma Ezzo picked up five saves to earn the shutout in the Spartans victory.

VTSU Castleton's offense continued to bring intensity and pressure with 11 shots throughout the contest. In her collegiate debut, first-year Natalie Webster connected on a cross from fellow first-year Maggie Parker to put one over the keeper extend Castleton's lead to 2-0, and collect her first career goal to solidify the victory for the Spartans. 

VTSU Castleton returns to action Wednesday, September 7 at 7:00 p.m. at home against SUNY Plattsburgh.