ASHEVILLE, N.C.- Isabella DeMarco's goal at the 76:57 mark gave Western Carolina a 1-0 victory over mountain rival UNC Asheville in the 2023 season opener Thursday evening at Greenwood Soccer Field.
 
The win for WCU over UNC Asheville is the fifth straight for the Catamounts in the all-time series.
 
Following 76 minutes of scoreless action, DeMarco tallied her fifth career goal in the upper left corner of the net thanks to a pass from Milla Syska. DeMarco's tally came just over three minutes after she re-entered the match as a substitute after starting the second half. The Charleston, S.C., native and 2023 preseason All-SoCon selection also finished with a match-best four shots.
 
Both teams finished with five shots and three on goal in the scoreless opening half.
 
Leanne Trudel earned her third career shutout in goal as she made four saves, three of which came in the first half. Her final save came in the final five minutes of the contest to preserve the Catamount lead. Grace Murray recorded five saves for UNC Asheville.
 
WCU held a 12-9 advantage in shots and had six shots on goal compared to four for the Bulldogs.
 
WCU opens the home portion of its schedule on Sunday, welcoming Queens at 1 p.m. with the match streamed on ESPN+ (paid subscription required) and live stats also available. 
 
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