A Southern Miss goal in the ninth minute turned out to be the only goal on the scoreboard for either team Friday evening as the Golden Eagles (9-3, 3-2 C-USA) came out with the win. Charlotte (8-4, 4-1 C-USA) entered Friday’s match as the top ranked team in Conference USA.

Freshman Olivia Durham netted the only score of the game at the 9:11 mark. Senior Hannah Abrams set up Durham for the one-on-one situation against Charlotte goalkeeper Abby Stapleton. Shortly after in the 14th minute, Charlotte junior Megan Greene appeared to counter Durham’s goal, but it was ultimately waved off due to an offside penalty.

The Golden Eagles ended up attempting several more shots, but Stapleton recovered from the first goal allowed and was able to come up with key stops. However, Durham’s goal was the only goal needed, as the Southern Miss defense pitched a shutout. Sophomore goalkeeper Kendell Mindnich finished the match by recording three saves.

The Golden Eagles finished the match with a total of fifteen shots and six shots on goal. The 49ers finished the match with a total of 12 shots and just three shots on goal. Charlotte also committed seven fouls during the game, compared to three for the Golden Eagles. Southern Miss also accumulated three saves, and the 49ers accumulated five saves on the afternoon.

The Golden Eagles return to action on Thursday as they look to grab another win against a 4-5-1  UTSA squad at the USM Track & Field and Soccer Complex in Hattiesburg. Game time is set for 4 p.m.