BOCA RATON, Fla. (SMU) – Wayny Balata and Nyah Rose both scored goals to help the Mustangs get an American Athletic Conference road win at Florida Atlantic on Thursday.
"It was great to come out with a win over such a well-organized opponent," said Head Coach Nicole Nelson. "Any time you can earn a clean sheet on the road means a lot, and our performance tonight showcased a collective, focused effort that helped us earn the win."
The Mustangs improved to 7-3-1 on the season, including a 3-1-1 mark in conference play.
Balata's goal in the 23rd minute put the Mustangs up 1-0 on the Owls. Balata, who controlled the ball off an assist from Rose, struck the ball past FAU's Lexi Gonzalez for her first goal of the season.
SMU is now 7-0 this season when scoring before its opponent.
The Mustangs sealed the game with a goal in the 88th minute. Maura Yumul advanced the ball to Rose, leading to Rose's eighth score of her freshman campaign. Rose entered Thursday's match ranked second in the AAC. Yumul recorded her first career assist on Rose's goal.
Samantha Estrada recorded her second consecutive and third overall shutout in a 90-minute performance that included two saves. Estrada entered the match ranked third in the AAC with 4.67 saves-per-game.
SMU has now allowed one or fewer goals in 23 of its 30 matches played under Head Coach Nicole Nelson – eight of which coming this season.
SMU's backline, headed by 90-minute efforts from Mayu Inokawa and Peyton Annen, helped mark the sixth match the Mustangs have allowed four or fewer shots on goal this season.
SMU controlled the pace throughout the night, outshooting FAU 11-2, including seven SMU shots on goal. The Mustangs also bested the Owls in corner kick opportunities (5-2).
The Mustangs will stay in the Sunshine State to take on South Florida on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. (CT) and can be livestreamed on ESPN+.
