ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — With the chance to clinch the South Central Division title on the line in Nolensville, Tennessee, an hour-long rain delay and tough Tennessee SC defense was not enough to keep the Blues from claiming the division crown and becoming the first team to punch their ticket to the USL W League playoffs after a gutsy 2-1 win.
After a lengthy rain delay, both teams struggled to muster up many chances in the first half. Each team was able to put at least a shot on target but nothing too threatening as most of the play was focused in the midfield as they went to the break tied at 0.
Things would not stay that way for long however as in the 56th minute, Lucia Flores placed a tidy finish home to put the Blues on top 1-0.
Tennessee equalized in the 68th minute through Aireona Duenez as she placed her penalty kick into the back of the net to knot things up at 1 for the hosts.
Seven minutes later however, the Blues drew a penalty kick of their own. Phoebe Hollin stepped up to the slot and converted her PK by smashing it past the Tennessee keeper to give the Blues a 2-1 advantage.
Asheville did well to control play and see out the game over a Tennessee side who took home the division title and ended the Blues season just last year and now will get the chance to compete for the W League crown when the playoffs roll around in July.
Sarah Gorham was awarded the Noble Cider Player of the Match award for her efforts in the match.
The South Central Division Champion Women in Blue return home to Greenwood Field on Sunday, June 28, when they host the Greenville Liberty at 7:30 p.m. for Pride Night. The No. 4 nationally-ranked men play at home against Dothan United on Saturday, June 21, at 7:30 p.m. Buy your tickets here.