Greensboro, N.C. – Sophomore Isabella Gutierrez scored on a cross from Kyndal Anderson in the third minute to lift No. 2 seed Furman to a 1-0 victory over No. 3 seed and host UNC Greensboro in the Southern Conference Women's Soccer Semifinals Friday evening in Greensboro, N.C.
 
With the victory, Furman (14-5-1) advances to face No. 1 seed Samford in the championship match Sunday at 2 p.m. at UNCG Soccer Stadium. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.
 
"This was a great victory for our team, especially having to play on their home field," said Paladin head coach Andrew Burr. "We created some great chances and Bella was able to finish one early for us. We can't wait to play for a championship on Sunday."
 
Anderson controlled the ball near the touch line on the right side of the field and sent a driving cross through the box. UNCG's goalkeeper failed to make a play on the ball with a diving effort and Gutierrez controlled the pass just wide of the left post before tucking away her shot at the 2:19 mark for her sixth goal of the season.
 
Furman created several chances throughout the game, including two Erin O'Hearn shots that rattled the post. The defense, however, made the early goal standup as senior Kellsey Weaver stopped three shots to record Furman's 11 shutout of the season.
 
Abby Buchholz made two saves for the Spartans, who outshot the Paladins 14-3. Each team recorded just three shots on goals.