BOISE, Idaho -- The University of Oregon soccer team opened its 2011 season with a 2-0 neutral-site win over Wyoming on Friday at the Boise State Tournament. Junior midfielder Maddy Mercier and freshman forward Bri Pugh scored goals for the Ducks.

"This was a good way to start the season," head coach Tara Erickson said. "It was a good win for us. All the young players were excited, and after they got into the game they became a little more seasoned. We played 20 players and everyone contributed. It was a huge learning experience for those kids."

A pair of veteran Ducks gave UO a 1-0 advantage in the 16th minute. Mercier, from Edmonds, Wash., redirected (into the net) a crossing pass from fellow junior midfielder Julie Armstrong.

"The returning players gave us tremendous leadership, helping the younger players adapt to their first college minutes," Erickson said.

Pugh, from Highlands Ranch, Colo., registered her first career goal in the 23rd minute of her first collegiate match. That score was created by junior midfielder Mo Fitzgerald's through-ball into Pugh, who finished low and to the far post.

"The back line and our midfield did a nice job of keeping possession," Erickson said. "Kelsey Foo and Mo Fitzgerald, particularly in the first half, really helped us in the middle to find our rhythm."

Both senior goalkeeper Lindsay Parlee and freshman goalkeeper Abby Steele saw action in the season-opening shutout.

The Ducks (1-0) will resume play on Sunday with a road match against host team Boise State scheduled for 1 pm (PT). UO defeated BSU last season in Eugene by a score of 2-0.

---

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

20 ODP National Team Boys to Know

20 ODP National Team Girls to Know

Commitments: Leaving the Northwest