NASHVILLE, Tenn. - - Behind a stirring second-half performance, Belmont University women's soccer defeated Chattanooga, 2-1, Thursday night from E.S. Rose Park.

Two goals in the final 24 minutes proved decisive as a purposeful second half yielded the Bruins an emotional home victory.
 
Belmont controlled momentum through most of the first half with several attacking opportunities.
 
In the 22nd minute, a long Chattanooga free kick into the box was redirected by Emma Reeves on a back-header which snuck under the crossbar for the match's opening goal.
 
The Bruins had scoring opportunities from Kaitlyn Elliott midway through the half, and nearly equalized in the final second of the first 45, but Chattanooga goalkeeper Caroline Ekern made a sprawling save on well-struck shot from Kate Virtel from outside the 18.

Belmont had six shots in the first half, and carried momentum into the second half.

After a series of attacking runs and corner kicks opportunities, Virtel found space in the 66^th minute from 30 yards out and rocketed a blast past Ekern to tie the score 1-1.

Greta Genie was attentive for Belmont in net denying any Chattanooga chances.

Then in the 77^th minute, the Bruins found Meredith Koltz on a run into the box. Her well-timed back touch to Reagan Ross netted the go-ahead goal.

The Bruins executed sound team defense and match management in the final 10 minutes to preserve possession and earn the victory.
Belmont outshot Chattanooga, 13-6.
 
The Bruins (1-1-1) return to action Sunday at Louisville. Match time is set for 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT.

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