Season Opener Highlights
The Charleston Southern women's soccer team opened its 2026 campaign with a 3-0 defeat at the CCU Soccer Complex in Conway, South Carolina, as Coastal Carolina asserted early dominance.
Coastal Carolina struck first when Kamden Pierce found the net in the 42nd minute, and the lead was doubled just after the break when Sammy Schulze converted a pass from Reegan Wagg, assisted by Kyra Kotsopoulos, in the 56th minute. The third goal came in the 82nd minute, when Lauryn Barringer finished a play set up by Landri Allee.
Despite the scoreline, Charleston Southern enjoyed a slight edge in possession, holding 55% of the ball compared to Coastal Carolina's 45%, and earned nine corner kicks in the second half. Goalkeeper MacKenzie Marotz made three saves in her debut start, while Aris Lamanna preserved the shutout with two stops for the Chanticleers.
The match also highlighted the defensive adjustments made by both sides, with Charleston Southern's backline creating chances but failing to convert, and Coastal Carolina's midfield orchestrating the attacks that led to the decisive goals.
Looking ahead, Charleston Southern will host Jacksonville at home on August 16 at 3:00 p.m., aiming to rebound from the opening loss and improve its season record.