Wilmington, NC - Cape Fear women's soccer defeated a strong Spartanburg Methodist squad, 1-0 on Saturday.

Cape Fear (9-0-0, 6-0-0) entered the game undefeated, but the Pioneers of Spartanburg Methodist (6-3-0, 5-2-0) figured to be their toughest opposition yet.

The first half was tight. Both teams defended well, which limited the amount of clear scoring chances. The game's only goal came in the 28th minute, as forward Carly Higgins scored off an assist from Janessa Annis.

With another goal today, Higgins raised her total to 18 on the season. Meanwhile, Annis increased her assist total to six on the season, 4th most on the team.

The rest of the game became a grind, as the Pioneers looked for an equalizer and the Sea Devils sought a clean sheet.

In the end, Cape Fear held on for the hard-earned win.

"Some days it is pretty and some days not so pretty and that is okay," said head coach Ryan Deppa. "Good teams find a way even on the days that it is not so pretty. To earn a shutout to finish off the month of September at 9-0 says a great deal about this team and the fight they have for each other."

The Sea Devils outshot the Pioneers on shot attempts (19-9) and shots on target (12-5). They also had more than double the amount of corner kicks (8-3).

Deppa felt that once the team took the lead, it became all about getting a result.

"Today was a day about simply finding a way to get a positive result against a solid team, and the team made that happen. I have no doubt that the girls will keep working together to improve, and will continue to find ways to get it done."

Deppa also praised the fans in attendance for their support and influence.

"The fans continue to play a positive role in giving these girls extra energy during the game. We are very lucky to have so many people supporting our girls on game day at Cape Fear."

Cape Fear returns to action Monday at 3:30, where they will take on USC Salkehatchie at home at 3:30 p.m.

Courtesy of Nick Denning