Women’s Soccer Splits Opening Week, Perkins Nets Four in Home Opener Victory

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA — The Richard Bland College Women's Soccer team opened its 2025 campaign on the road at Hagerstown Community College Thursday afternoon, falling 1-4 to the Hawks. The Statesmen quickly bounced back, proving resilience in their home opener this afternoon, posting a commanding 6-0 victory over the Bantams of USC Union. Richard Bland moved to 1-1 overall and will look to continue building momentum heading in the next stretch of non-conference play.

The Statesmen created many opportunities and displayed strong energy in their first contest of the year, but ultimately came up short on the scoreboard. Sara Sparks put Richard Bland on the board first, scoring the lone goal for the Statesmen on the day, in the 19^th minute. The Hawks tallied two goals before the half, and added two more in the second half to earn the non-conference win. Piper Whitney played all 90 minutes between the pipes and was credited with seven saves.

Saturday afternoon, the Statesmen wasted no time pushing ahead, with Jade Perkins scoring four goals in the first half, including a span of three straight strikes in a 14-minute window. Assists came from Grace Pope (2), Sara Liones, and Shani Priestly to fuel the early offensive surge. RBC added two more in the second half as Hailey Gradiska netted her first collegiate goal in the 71^st minute, followed by Rhianna Pena scoring in the 76^th off a feed from Alanjane Granger. The Statesmen outshot USC Union 17-1 and dominated corner kicks 12-0. Keeper, Piper Whitney earned the shutout with one save.

The Statesmen return to action at home on Wednesday, September 3^rd, when they host USC Sumter at Willcox Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 3pm.

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