ELMHURST, Ill. -  Katie Baschen blasted home a goal in the opening half to lead the Elmhurst College women's soccer team to a 1-0 season-opening victory over Hope College.

Hope (0-1) had its best scoring chance in the opening half, but Elmhurst goalie Maddie Fitzpatrick recorded a pair of point-blank saves to turn away the Flying Dutch.

 

Baschen broke a scoreless tie in the 35th minute, collecting clearing attempt from Hope, dribbling 30 yards up the field and blasting home a 35-yard strike into the upper half of the net.

Hope pressed the action in the second half, but the Bluejays' defense held the Flying Dutch scoreless to preserve the shutout win.

Hope held a slim 8-7 shots advantage in the contest while Elmhurst attempted four corner kicks to Hope's one attempt.

Fitzpatrick recorded six saves in goal to earn the shutout for the Bluejays. Megan Altieri stopped three shots and allowed one goal while taking the loss for Hope.

Elmhurst hosts Lawrence University tomorrow (Saturday, September 1) at Langhorst Field. The game is scheduled for a 4:00 p.m. start.