Elon’s Dennion Records Hat Trick in Women’s Soccer Win Over Chattanooga

ELON, N.C. – Nicole Dennion’s hat trick was all the Elon University women’s soccer team needed on Friday night, Oct. 25, as the Phoenix claimed a 3-0 decision versus the visiting Chattanooga Lady Mocs at Rudd Field.

Dennion’s 13 goals are the most in a single season Elon history since making the transition to the Division I ranks. The 13-goal mark ties Kam Radford for 10th all-time in program history.

Elon improves to 11-2-4 (5-1-2 Southern Conference) with the win to remain unbeaten at home this season. The win marks Elon’s fourth straight.

“We picked up three points tonight and have a lot of energy going into Sunday’s match,” commented Elon head coach Chris Neal.

Dennion, who now leads the SoCon in goals (13) and points (31), put two early scores in the back of the net in the first half to give the Phoenix a 2-0 lead. Dennion broke loose along the left side in the 11th minute for the score to give the Phoenix a 1-0 lead. In the 14th minute, Dennion headed in an Olivia Mackey pop up over UTC keeper Taylor Mangrum to give the maroon and gold a 2-0 lead.

Elon out shot the Mocs 12-1 in the opening frame, putting seven strikes on frame.

Dennion completed the hat trick in the 57th minute on a pass from Marrisa Russo to put the Phoenix ahead, 3-0. Dennion took Russo’s pass near the right post and struck it into the back of the net for the goal.

“I thought we had a lot of energy tonight,” Dennion said. “We took advantage of our opportunities tonight. We look forward to Sunday’s match against Samford.”

Elon ended the match with a 25-4 advantage in shots, putting 15 total strikes on target.

Sydney Branson played all 90 minutes between the posts to earn the shutout. Branson finished with two saves.

Elon returns to action on Sunday at 2 p.m. versus Samford for Senior Day.