Tennessee’s soccer team began its 2025 campaign with a thrilling 2-0 victory over top-ranked North Carolina, the defending national champion. The Lady Vols’ win marks their first season-opening triumph over a reigning NCAA champion since 2002.
Head coach Joe Kirt praised his team’s cohesion, saying they “weren’t changing anything” and were instead “being ourselves.” The team’s energy, communication, and teamwork paid off as they covered for each other and made crucial plays.
The match began scoreless until the 57th minute when senior Jenna Stayart sent a pass to Shae O’Rourke, who scored her first goal in a Tennessee uniform. O’Rourke then added a second goal in the 75th minute, assisted by Stayart’s cross-field through ball.
Tennessee goalkeeper Cayden Norris made five saves for the shutout, while O’Rourke led the team with four shots on target. The Lady Vols will host Eastern Kentucky on Sunday, August 17, at 1 p.m. E.T., looking to build momentum in their season-opening win.
Source: https://utsports.com/news/2025/8/14/soccer-tennessee-takes-down-no-1-tar-heels-2-0-lady-vols-register-first-win-over-top-ranked-team-in-program-history