UNLV women top MSU in their home soccer debut

The UNLV women's soccer team scored two goals in the second half to defeat Michigan State 2-1 in the Rebels' home opener Sunday at Johann Field.

Summer Frew scored the game-winning goal from Joeleen Palmeri at the 83:59 mark to cap a successful start for the first-year UNLV program.

Michigan State opened the scoring when Jennifer Moorman scored on a corner kick from Meghan Kolbe at the 36:03 mark. The Rebels responded at 68:29 when Felicia Madrigal nailed a free kick from 25 yards out, tying the game at 1-1.

The victory was more meaningful for UNLV coach Staci Hendershott and assistant coach Damon Rensing because both graduated from Michigan State.

The Rebels (3-1) will travel to Cal State Northridge Wednesday for a 7 p.m. contest.

In the first half of the doubleheader, Central Florida beat the UNLV men 2-0.

Central Florida took a 1-0 lead at the 19:01 mark when Heikki Ritvanen put in the the rebound of a Remi Hariz shot. The visitors added to their lead in the 38th minute when Arno Nurmisto connected on a free kick.

The Rebels took the offensive in the second half, spending the majority of the time on the UCF side of the field. UNLV had its chances, including a season-high 17 corner kicks.

In an early game, Memphis defeated UCSB, 2-1.

The Rebel men return to action against Alabama A&M at the Goal Rush Classic in Fresno, Calif., Friday.

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