ST. PETERSBURG – Ashley Nelson struck twice on Friday to lead the Eckerd women's soccer team to a 2-1 victory over the visiting Valdosta State Blazers. 

Eckerd generated the first opportunity of the match in the fourth minute as Nell Doe sent an effort over the crossbar. Amy Woodhead followed with a shot on target in the eighth minute, but the Valdosta State goalkeeper made the save. The Blazers produced their best early chances minutes later, forcing Madi Winn into back-to-back saves in the 11th and 12th minutes.

Eckerd continued to push forward as Doe fired off an attempt again in the 14th minute before Nelson and Jasmine Gallo each sent attempts high later in the half. Despite the Tritons holding a 6-3 advantage in shots over the opening 45 minutes, the teams entered halftime scoreless.

In the second, Freija Aflenzer forced a save in the 48th minute before Nelson had shots turned away in both the 48th and 50th minutes. The pressure paid off moments later when Nelson broke the deadlock to give the Tritons a 1-0 lead in the 51st minute.

Just 1:25 later, Nelson struck again. Aflenzer provided the assist as Nelson buried her second goal of the match to quickly double Eckerd's advantage to 2-0.

The Tritons continued to create opportunities while protecting the lead, ultimately finishing the second period with nine shots compared to just two from Valdosta State. The Blazers spoiled the shutout with just three seconds remaining.

Nelson led all players with five shots, putting four on goal while accounting for both Triton goals. Doe added four attempts, while Aflenzer finished with a shot on goal and the assist on Nelson's second tally. The Tritons out-shot the Blazers 15-5.

Winn played all 90 minutes in goal, making three saves to earn the victory.

With the victory, the Tritons improve to 2-0-1 on the season. The team will be on the road on Sunday to face Columbus State.