Samford Opens Season with 2-0 Win Over Belmont
The Bulldogs kicked off the 2026 campaign in front of a home crowd, delivering a disciplined performance that saw them dominate possession and create multiple chances against a resilient Belmont side.
Scoring opened in the 38th minute when freshman forward Hayven Laurendine struck for her first collegiate goal, finishing a well‑timed pass from Brinley Murphy. The lead was doubled in the 76th minute as senior midfielder Martha Bishop converted a second assist from Murphy, sealing a comfortable margin.
Murphy’s influence extended beyond the goals, as he also set up Addison Smith for an additional chance that nearly extended the lead, highlighting his role as the team’s creative engine. Between the posts, goalkeeper Peyton Hull posted her second consecutive shutout, making several key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Belmont’s attack was led by Laken Whittington, who logged a team‑high three shots but was unable to break through Hull’s defense. Veteran keeper Greta Genie faced ten shots and allowed only two goals, but the Bulldogs’ offensive pressure proved decisive.
With the win, Samford improves to a 1-0-1 record and will travel to face Georgia State on August 20 at 6 p.m., a match that promises another test of the team’s early‑season form.