EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Behind a strong defensive performance and a first-year's breakthrough moment, the College of Saint Benedict soccer team earned its first win of the season with a 1-0 road victory over Wisconsin-Eau Claire on Saturday afternoon.

First-year forward Elly Prairie netted the game's only goal in the 26th minute, scoring off an assist at the 25:01 mark to give CSB the lead—and ultimately the win. It was Prairie's first collegiate goal, and it came at a pivotal time for a Bennies team that had faced a challenging early-season schedule, including matches against two top-four nationally ranked opponents.

With the win, CSB improves to 1-4 overall, while UW-Eau Claire drops to 1-4-1 on the season.

While the goal made the highlight reel, it was the Bennies' defense and goalkeeping duo that truly secured the victory. Rhianna Anya started in net and recorded five saves in a shutout first half. Claire McGrath took over in the second half and added four more saves as the Bennies held the Blugolds scoreless across 90 minutes.

Despite being outshot 17-13, CSB made its chances count and held firm defensively. UW-Eau Claire also held a narrow 6-5 edge in corner kicks, but the Bennies backline remained organized and composed throughout the match.

The win comes just one week after a narrow 2-1 loss to Wartburg and offers a promising sign of growth for a young CSB team still finding its rhythm.

Up next, Saint Benedict heads to Wisconsin-Oshkosh for a nonconference matchup on Sunday, Sept. 14 at 2 p.m., before returning home to open MIAC play against St. Scholastica on Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. at the CSB Soccer Field.