RINDGE, N.H. – A goal in each half propelled Southern New Hampshire University to a season-opening 2-0 women's soccer victory over Wilmington (Del.) University in the opening round of the Franklin Pierce Tournament at Sodexo Field Friday afternoon.  The game marked the season opener for both schools.

The Penmen got on the board at the 8:17 mark following a throw-in from the right side.  Gabby Cappello (North Andover, Mass.), playing a ball from the endline, crossed it over to Morgan Branco (Norton, Mass.), who one-timed it past Wilcat keeper Julia Brown inside the right post.  Just shy of game's 70-minute mark, Ashley Jaskula (Palmer, Mass.) broke away down the left side and beat Brown inside the far right post for her first goal of the season.

Samantha Whittier (Sutton, Mass.) recorded her fifth straight shutout dating back to last season and made one save, while Brown made six stops as Southern New Hampshire outshot Wilmington 21-1 on the afternoon.  The Penmen also generated a 6-4 corner kick advantage.

Southern New Hampshire is back in action Sunday when it faces Caldwell College in the second round of the Franklin Pierce Tournament at noon.

For the latest on Southern New Hampshire University athletics, follow the Penmen via social media on Twitter (@snhupenmen), Facebook (www.facebook.com/snhupenmen), Youtube (www.youtube.com/snhupenmen) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/snhupenmen).