Mary Dale's goal in the 20th minute proved to be the only tally of the match as Loyola (Chicago) defeated Valparaiso 1-0 on Sunday afternoon in the Crusaders' home opener at Eastgate Field.

Erin Murray (Pleasanton, Calif./Amador Valley H.S.) was strong in goal for the Crusaders, turning aside nine Rambler shot attempts. Dale picked up a loose ball on the left side of the goal and beat Murray at the 19:38 mark. Jackie Vera and Cynthia Morote-Ariza drew the assists.

The Ramblers had two more golden opportunities in the second half, but shots misfired off of the crossbar and the goal post.

Valpo managed just six total shots in the contest, four of which were on goal, but Emily Peick turned aside all four for the shutout victory.

Loyola (2-0) managed to fire off 20 attempts, 10 of which were on frame. Valpo had eight corner kick opportunities compared with six for the Ramblers.

Valparaiso (1-1) will continue its homestand on Friday afternoon as the Crusaders entertain another future Horizon League opponent, Cleveland State. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. with the match being carried live on WVUR (95.1-FM, Valparaiso) and online at www.valpo.edu/athletics.

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