WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The Salem soccer team makes its 2019 home debut at Varsity Field on Saturday, August 14, when the Spirits play host to Randolph-Macon in a match set to start at 2 p.m.
The Spirits (2-2) took to the field at Sweet Briar on Wednesday afternoon, but the game was postponed at the 23-minute mark due to inclement weather in the surrounding area with Salem leading 1-0. Salem defended its home turf with success last year, finishing 5-5 over the course of the season.
Salem continues to be led offensively by Ellie Montes, who has accounted for eight points (four assists / two goals) in the first four matches. Montes came through with five points against Covenant, handing out three assists to go along with a goal, resulting in her best single-match point total of the early season. She is followed closely by Ellie Montes and Baylee Greenwood, who have four points apiece by virtue of a pair of goals.
Jordan Tomberlin (2-1) has started three of the four matches in goal for Salem, making 11 saves (.579 save percentage) while surrendering eight opponent goals. Teammate Hannah Wagner (0-1) made her first start of the season on Sunday, versus Agnes Scott, posting five saves along the way to a .625 save percentage.
Randolph-Macon, who was predicted to finish fourth in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference preseason polls, enters the match with a perfect 5-0 mark. The Yellow Jackets are 2-0 on the road, posting a pair of 2-0 wins over Penn State-Harrisburg (Aug. 30) and Catholic (Sept. 8).
The combination of Gabby Nelson and Tyria Smalls, who have accounted for five and three goals, respectively, lead the way for Randolph-Macon offensively. Nelson is responsible for 12 points, handing out a pair of assists, and has attempted 15 shots on goal (.577 shot on goal percentage).
The tandem of Edye Carr and Christina Newman have equally split time in net for Randolph-Macon, logging 225 minutes apiece, combining for eight saves (.800 save percentage) and three shutouts.
For more information on Salem soccer check out www.salemspirits.com.