ST. LOUIS – [BOX SCORE] Alexis Turner's goal in the 61st minute lifted the Spartans to a 1-0 win over William Woods to begin conference play.

Turner's strike into the net was the first of the freshman's collegiate career. It broke the scoreless tie and provided a sense of relief to the Spartan offense that applied heavy pressure for most of the game.

MBU (3-3, 1-0) fired 24 total shots, while the Owls (1-4-1, 0-1) managed just 10. The team also limited William Woods to one corner kick.

The Spartans proved up to the task, despite playing without leading goal scorer Haylee Eastridge. In her absence, a number of Spartans stepped up in pressuring the Owls defense, including Turner, Riley Janvrin and Cassandra Willhite. All placed multiple shots right at WWU goalie Rebecca Sturgess. Danielle Wilde led the way with five total shots, while Alexandra Heinz and Monica Robinson each added three.

Fresh of earning AMC Defensive Player of the Week honors, goalie Alex Lair pitched her second shutout of the season. The junior made five total saves to do her part in helping MBU pick up the win. Captain Lauren Krebs, among others, also helped lead the strong Spartan defense.

The team's win over Woods was its first since October 8, 2011- a span of six games. After playing two Top 15 teams in non-conference play and another that's receiving votes, the Spartans proved they were ready to battle with the top AMC team. 

MBU now has over a week off before they continue conference play on Wednesday, September 21 at Stephens College. The match is set to start at 6:00 pm.