ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – The University of Chicago women's soccer team got to a flying start in their opening game of the 2021 season, beating Augustana College 4-0 on the road Wednesday.

The away contest was UChicago's first women's soccer game since Nov. 23, 2019. The 2020 fall season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The No. 15-ranked Maroons came out firing and never stopped – the visitors ended up with a 23-4 shot advantage, including 9-1 in shots on goal. UChicago peppered Augustana's defense throughout the first half, which included a blast off the crossbar by junior Skye Davis.

UChicago broke onto the scoreboard in the 44th minute when sophomore Allison Embroski netted the goal off an assist from Davis. It didn't take long for the Maroons to add to their lead after halftime. Junior Hannah Rittenhouse buried a penalty kick goal in the 55th minute, which was soon followed by senior Peyton Jefferson's goal three minutes later. Senior Adriana Shutler put the finishing touches on the proceedings to make it 4-0 in the 78th minute.

Shutler's four shots led the team, followed by three shots apiece from Rittenhouse and sophomore Maggie Jameson. Along with the impressive shots advantage, UChicago took the corner kicks category by a 4-0 margin.

Graduate student Miranda Malone (one save) and first-year Sophie Pilarski combined on the shutout effort in goal.

NEXT GAME:

• Sunday, Sept. 5 @ 3:00 PM – UChicago at Monmouth College