CLEVELAND-Freshman Charlotte Benson scored her first career goal with only eight minutes left, as the Delta State University Lady Statesmen soccer team defeated Bethel University 1-0 in the home opener Monday at Delta Field.

The Lady Statesmen had lost their first two games by one goal, including a loss in double overtime in the season opener.

The two teams appeared to be headed for overtime for 81 scoreless minutes, until Benson scored her first career goal at DSU. The Guildford, Surrey, England native powered the ball into the net after an outstanding free kick by freshman Erin Weaver.

Freshman keeper Faith Wright also had an outstanding effort. Wright stopped seven BU shots, while posting her first career shutout.

The Lady Statesmen defense was rock solid, with the combined efforts of Joy Johnson, Jaz Yacaman, Sam Bossert, Meredith Wilkes and Melinda Esplin.

Both teams finished with 14 total shots, but Bethel had seven shots on goal compared to five for the Lady Statesmen.

The Lady Statesmen will try to stay on the winning track on Wednesday Sept. 8, as they travel to Montgomery, Ala., to take on Faulkner University.

Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.