MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The much anticipated return to Billy D. Hilyer Stadium on the newly resurfaced John Mark Stallings Field entertained the fans who braved the uncertain weather conditions leading into Thursday night's contest, but a 60th minute goal from Rachel Dalton that dropped Faulkner 1-0.

The decisive moment came after the goalscorer's sister, Ave's leading scorer and assist-getter last season, knocked an attempt off the post and fell right to Rachel's feet who calmly slot it home. 

Faulkner's offense, sparked by some tremendous play from Luci Schroder, in the first half provided build-up electricity similar to the aerial variety that threatened to delay, but it did not wield dividends. The best shot of the evening came when Faith Pelletier-King's header in the 27th minute appeared to have a date with the side netting but was pushed away with a tremendous reaction save by Gyrene goalkeeper Maddie Samuelson. After the first half, the Lady Eagles' seven shots found just two on frame while the Gyrenese placed five of their eight on frame.  

Pelletier-King nearly opened the scoring again in the 52nd when Corrine Weissinger played her through for a one-on-one with the keeper but it was just a bit too heavy for the Canadian forward to get off a good shot. Despite threatening in the later stages of the match, Faulkner could not muster a shot on target in the final 57 minutes.

Keila Cardiero Carmona proved tough in goal, tallying seven saves in her debut, including five in the first half. 

Faulkner will travel to Pulaski, Tenn. to face the UT Southern Firehawks. Formerly the RedHawks, the two teams are no stranger to each other having played 14 times.