LAKE WALES, Fla. - After falling behind in the 1st half, the Royals battled back to earn a 2-to-1 victory over Webber International University in the first of two Crooked Lake Derby matches this season. The Royals leaned into their experience in Tuesday night's win as both goals came from Warner upper classmen.
Due to inclement weather on Saturday night, the Royals and Warriors had to wait until Tuesday evening before kicking off the 2026 chapter of the Crooked Lake Rivalry. Both programs came out ready to play as the Royals and Warriors would each record 2 shots in the opening stages of play. The Warriors were able to break the tie in the 20th minute taking advantage of a free kick opportunity that came in their offensive third, where a WIU forward scored off a 50/50 ball to give Webber a 1-0 lead. Following the goal, the Royals settled back into their style of play to create a great passing combination along the left side of the field leading to
Malina Salas beating her defender on the wing before sending a cross into the box. After the Royals battled to gain control of the ball,
Shelby Cape broke through past her defender to score on a strong shot to the far post to beat the goalkeeper to level the game at 1 in the 38th minute. The two teams each created a few more chances over the final minutes of the half, but both defenses were able to keep the game tied at 1 heading into the break.
As the 2nd half went the Royals were able to control the majority of the possession and were able to create strong attacks throughout the half and would finally find the back of the net in 85th minute. The Royals had to battle to earn each shot they took in the 2nd half and their goal was no exception. Warner started their attack up the right wing before losing control of the ball just outside of the box.
Miya Sikhakhane went on to regain control on the wing between three Warriors defenders before hitting a pass to
Gianna Bellomo at the top of the 18. Bellomo chipped the ball on her 1st touch and floated the ball over the Webber goalie to give the Royals the lead with just over 5 minutes remaining in the game. Warner's defense went on to close out the game without allowing the Warriors to find a late equalizer and secure the 2-to-1 victory for the Royals.
Haley Van Houweling continues to have a strong opening to her Senior season, recording 7 saves over 90 minutes to earn her 2nd win between the posts this year. The Royals final stat line from Tuesday nights Derby match was 10 shots, (6 on goal), 2 corner kicks and 7 saves.
Up Next:
The Royals will look to continue to build on this momentum as the team takes to the road for the 1st time this season when they head to Georgia to take on NCAA DIII side LaGrange College on Saturday, September 5th at 11:00am.
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