The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women's soccer team returned to competition for the first time in nearly 22 months Friday afternoon and started the 2021 season with a 2-0 victory at St. Scholastica in a non-conference contest in Duluth, Minn.
 
The Warhawks (1-0 overall) allowed the Saints to record only two shots, including one on goal, while totaling 11 (five on goal) on the other end. UW-W also held a 10-1 advantage in corner kicks.
 
Olivia May (Elkhorn, Wis./Elkhorn Area) tallied what proved to be the game-winning goal on an assist from Carli Nehls (Downers Grove, Ill./Downers Grove North) in the 16th minute to give UW-Whitewater the early lead.
 
Nehls also set up the team's second goal. After she was fouled going to goal in the 64th minute, the Warhawks were awarded a penalty kick, and Anna Brodjian (Barrington, Ill./Barrington) found the back of the net to double the UW-W advantage.
 
Goalkeeper Emma Hager (Arlington Heights, Ill./Hersey) went the distance for the Warhawks, posting one save for her first career shutout.
 
UW-Whitewater has now won four of its last five season opening matches, including three away from home. A total of 27 players saw action for UW-W on Friday.
 
The Warhawks conclude their weekend in Minnesota Sunday at St. Benedict. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. in St. Joseph, Minn.