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CARROLLTON, Ga.- The Wolves' home opener at University Soccer Field was an exciting battle in front of a roaring crowd of 367, as West Georgia fell 1-0 to Mercer. The result moves UWG to 0-1-1 on the season, while the Bears remain undefeated at 2-0.

The Bears fired off 15 shots in the first half, with eight finding the target. Mercer started the match as the aggressor, controlling possession and putting pressure on the Wolves' defense.

UWG stayed strong throughout the relentless attack, but with 25:15 remaining in the first half, the Bears broke through as Olivia Bori scored off an assist from Anna Bachman. The goal gave Mercer a 1-0 lead heading into the first hydration break. 

Despite giving up a goal in the first half, Emily Sanabria continued to anchor the Wolves in goal, recording seven saves in the opening half while showing composure against Mercer's high-powered offensive attack. 

UWG was unable to counter before halftime and entered the break trailing Mercer 1-0. Kaylen Brown recorded the Wolves' only shot on target of the opening half. 

West Georgia opened the second half with renewed energy, as freshman Adelyn O'Bryan fired off three shots, including one on target, testing the Mercer back line and leading UWG's offense.

Noemi Casique followed the freshman's attack with a scoring opportunity of her own, putting a shot on goal that was blocked by a defender with the goalkeeper out of position.

The Wolves took their second hydration break with less than 20 minutes remaining, continuing to search for the equalizer in their home opener. However, the Bears' back line remained strong throughout the remainder of the match, and UWG ultimately fell to Mercer 1-0 for the second consecutive season.

Despite the result, Sanabria finished the night with 12 saves in the home opener after recording 12 saves in the season opener at Jacksonville State. This marks the first time a UWG goalkeeper has recorded consecutive double-digit save performances since Jackie Donaldson did during the 2018 season, recording 16 saves against Georgia College before making 10 saves against Montevallo.

The Wolves now turn their attention to a road matchup against East Tennessee State University on Thursday, Aug. 20, at 6 p.m. at Summers-Taylor Stadium in Johnson City, Tennessee, where UWG will look to secure its first win of the season.