The Misericordia women's soccer team defeated Lebanon Valley 1-0 on a golden goal by freshman striker Sam Helmstetter in their season opener Tuesday night at Mangelsdorf Field.

Helmstetter's goal, which came with 3:21 to play in the second overtime period, was the result of a beautiful through ball from junior Kim Suchoski.

Helmstetter calmly dribbled around the keeper and slid the ball into the open net.

The goal came after 106 scoreless minutes in which the Cougars out-shot their opponents 22-15.

Misericordia dominated a scoreless first half, outshooting Lebanon Valley 12-2, but the Dutchmen did look dangerous on the break.

A Lebanon Valley striker broke free in the 23rd minute only for freshman Laura Roney to make a shot-stopping tackle in the box after catching her from behind.

Lauren Payne had Misericordia's best chance of the half when her arching shot forced the Lebanon Valley keeper into a tough save.

Early in the second half, MU's Ashley McDonnell appeared to be taken down in the penalty area but the ensuing free kick was awarded just outside the box.

Lebanon Valley gained momentum late, forcing Cougar goalkeeper Morgan Myers (six saves) into several tough stops in the second period. Freshman defender Bridget Fortier also came up with several big-time tackles late in the game to keep the game scoreless.

The Cougars were under pressure again in the first minute of overtime, but Myers made a great diving stop with an LVC striker behind the defense and then saved the ensuing corner as well.

Misericordia regained its composure and finally grabbed their first victory of the season with Helmstetter's strike.

Next up, MU will host Moravian in the first round of the Misericordia Inviational, Friday at 6:30.