Celts capitalize early with three first-half goals
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Houston, TX – The North American University Stallions dropped a non-conference match on Thursday evening, falling 3-0 to the University of St. Thomas at SaberCats Stadium.

The Celts struck early, capitalizing in the 21st minute when Emma Cerda scored off an assist from Amy Romero. Ten minutes later, freshman Sydney Ferguson extended the lead to 2-0 with help from Karleigh Villanueva. St. Thomas closed out the half with a third goal from Romero in the 38th minute, assisted by Grace Carmichael.

Despite adjustments in the second half, the Stallions were unable to break through the Celt defense. NAU was limited to just two shots on the night, while goalkeeper Arely Sarabia tallied two saves in the loss. With the result, NAU moves to 0-3-0 on the season, while St. Thomas earned its first victory to improve to 1-1-2.

Score Breakdown

• 1st Half

  • 21' – St. Thomas: Emma Cerda (assist: Amy Romero) – 1-0

  • 31' – St. Thomas: Sydney Ferguson (assist: Karleigh Villanueva) – 2-0

  • 38' – St. Thomas: Amy Romero (assist: Grace Carmichael) – 3-0

• 2nd Half

  • No scoring.

Final: St. Thomas 3, NAU 0

Key Players

North American University (NAU)

• Arely Sarabia (GK): 2 saves, played all 90 minutes.

• Genevieve Colon: 1 shot, worked to create NAU's few attacking opportunities.

St. Thomas (Tex.)

• Amy Romero (#18): 1 goal, 1 assist – most productive player on the pitch.

• Emma Cerda (#3): Scored the opening goal.

• Sydney Ferguson (#7): Freshman forward with the second goal.

• Grace Carmichael (#22) & Karleigh Villanueva (#11): 1 assist each.

The Stallions return to action Sunday, September 14, with a road match against Huston-Tillotson University in Austin. Kickoff is set for the evening.