Spartanburg, SC – After a long wait, the Converse College Women's Soccer team was finally able to see the field and play in competitive competition.  On Sunday afternoon, they welcomed in Erskine College, not only for the first game of the season, but also for the first Conference Carolinas game of the season.  Due to weather issues, over the last week, the game was played at Viking Stadium at Spartanburg High School. 

The first half saw both teams playing a defensive game, which made it difficult for both the Valkyries and the Fleet to get much going offensively.  Both goalkeepers played outstanding with Converse's Darian Banskton turning away 2 shots on goal, while Erskine's Cheyenne Fuller turned away 4.  Even though both teams had a few chances to take the lead, the half ended the way the game began, with a score of 0-0.

Both teams came out aggressively in the second half, trying to put together some runs at the goal.  Unfortunately, with a little over 6 minutes remaining in the game, the Fleet was able to get one past Bankston, to take the lead, 1-0.  A little controversy would ensue towards the end of the game as the Valkyries appeared to have scored to tie the game.  However, after the referees conferred, they decided that the Fleet goalie made the save in front of the goal and not inside the goal, as it had appeared.  As the horn sounding, Converse would fall to Erskine by a score of 1-0.

The Valkyries were led by Jordan Brooks with 2 shots, followed by Heaven Robinson and Stephanie Cumex-Ortiz with 1 shot a piece.  Darian Bankston also had a solid day in the goal with 4 saves.  The Valkyries will return to action on Wednesday 2/24/21, when they welcome in Shaw University for a non-conference matchup.  Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00pm in Spartanburg.