FOND DU LAC, Wis. (SabreAthletics.com) – A goal and an assist from junior Brittany Syms led the way as the Marian University women's soccer team notched a 2-0 season opening victory at home over visiting Ripon College at Smith Field this afternoon, Aug. 30.

Syms assisted freshman Mikaila Johnson on her first career goal in the 27th minute before finding the net herself less than 10 minutes later. Marian snapped a four-game losing skid in season openers and moved to 1-0 on the young season. Meanwhile, Ripon dropped to 0-1 with the loss.

In the first 20 minutes, Marian controlled possession and had a few opportunities turned away by Ripon goalkeeper Sidney Blodgett, who finished with 10 saves on the day.

Then, in the 27th minute, Syms crossed a ball into the penalty area. Johnson needed a couple touches, but was able to beat Blodgett left near post to put the Sabres on the board.

It didn't take long for another promising scoring opportunity as Syms took a Nicole Rublee pass and found herself one-on-one with the keeper before depositing a blast into the right far post for the goal.

Caitlyn Rosenberger denied all six shots she saw for her sixth career clean sheet. Jaime Anderson and Kelly Kulinski led a defense that turned away multiple Red Hawk scoring opportunities as well.

Marian outshot Ripon 18-9 in the match, while the Red Hawks collected eight corner kicks to the Sabres' five.

Marian will be back in action Wednesday, Sept. 4, when it takes on UW-La Crosse on the road. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.