Aleigh Gambone couldn’t miss. The North Carolina forward had drifted into space, just in front on the goal. And when the ball politely fell off the bar and onto her right foot, the back of the net was bound to ripple. She turned in delight to her teammates, celebrating her first career goal with appropriate vigor. It had been a difficult first half to that point for the Heels. Two shots narrowly missed the goal, a third parried away by Tennessee goalkeeper Ally Zazzara.
Gambone’s goal seemed to stymie those nerves, ending that frustration that resulted from three missed chances. UNC settled from there, eventually winning 3-0 behind a controlled season opening performance.
The Tar Heels’ smooth start was one of a few intriguing storylines from week one of the women’s college soccer season. Saint Louis started the campaign with a statement performance. New coaches struggled to find the back of the net. And seven ranked teams lost. Here’s a few takeaways from a chaotic few days.
