Tennessee shuts out Bucknell to remain undefeated

In its third straight game away from home, Tennessee (7-0) shut out Bucknell (1-5) 1-0 on Thursday afternoon at Emmitt Varsity Soccer Field. Tonight was the first ever meeting between the two programs.

Tennessee started off strong when redshirt sophomore Katie Cousins sent an early shot on goal in the sixth minute. The away team dictated the tempo throughout the first half, earning multiple corner kick opportunities and free kicks from fouls committed by Bucknell. While dealing with gusty weather conditions, the two clubs entered halftime scoreless.

The Vols would continue to control the game in the second half, sending shot-after-shot on goal, calling Bucknell goalkeeper Dani Kaufman into immediate action early in the half. In the 73rd minute, freshman McKinley Burkett sent in a pass that created confusion for the Bucknell defenders. Redshirt junior Anna Bialczak capitalized on the confusion, getting into the box and scoring her second goal of the season. Bialczak’s seventh career goal proved to be the difference in the game.

Tennessee was solid defensively in its win over Bucknell, limiting the Bison to just six shots and giving up only one corner. Despite the 1-0 scoreline, the Tennessee offense was able to create eight shots on goal and 15 shots overall.

With the win, Tennessee is off to its best start in program history since 2012, when they started off 5-0. The Vols hopes to carry their momentum back to Knoxville as they prepare to face Virginia Tech on Sunday night at Regal Soccer Stadium. The Hokies will be Tennessee’s last non-conference match-up before heading into SEC play.