CLARION, Pa:  Gannon's Emily Cekella headed in a free kick from teammate Hannah Manczka in the 103^rd minute to lift the visiting Golden Knights to a 1-0 double-overtime victory over Clarion in a thrilling women's soccer season opener.

In a game that featured a defensive battle on both sides, Gannon's best chance early came in the 13^th minute when a shot by Taylor Lewis rang off the top crossbar.  Clarion had a golden opportunity of their own in the 24^th minute when senior Stephanie Lias (Aliquippa, Pa., Hopewell) ripped a shot that beat GU keeper Danitza Indacochea but again, right off the crossbar, keeping the two teams scoreless heading into halftime.

Clarion had a number of offensive pushes stalled by offsides calls, while Gannon really couldn't muster much against a stingy Golden Eagles defensive unit.

CU held a small advantage in corner kicks, 3-1, while the Golden Knights held a 10-6 edge in shots, with Cekella's header being the difference in the game.

Both goaltenders were rarely tested, with Indacoceha recording just one save while Clarion's Krista Mosi (South Park, Pa., South Park) stopped a pair of shots on the night.

Coach Sean Esterhuizen's squad will hit the road Saturday for a 1pm contest against PSAC foe Lock Haven University.