EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.  -  SIUE women's soccer got off to a blazing hot start in the Cougars' first match at Korte Stadium, as MacKenzie Litzinger's brace led SIUE past the visiting Austin Peay Governors.

"We were all very excited to be back at Korte," said SIUE Head Coach Derek Burton following the match. "Back in front of our families and friends again after a long time of not being able to enjoy that incredible atmosphere."

The Cougars netted their first goal in the seventh minute, as Litzinger received a pass from Lydia Harris to put the Red & White up 1-0. That would be the only score for either team during the opening half, despite the Cougars attempting 12 shots during the first 45 minutes. SIUE came out in the second half determined to extend the lead, and two goals in the span of 46 seconds did just that. Andrea Frerker netted a goal in the 57th minute and MacKenzie Litzinger secured her second goal of the match and third of the season off assists from Lily Schnieders and Maria Haro. The Governors scored two late goals to cut the Cougar lead to one, but the final whistle sounded and SIUE emerged with their second victory of the season.

"MacKenzie has a laser focused desire to score goals and create opportunities," said Burton. "Our last season, she made a big leap in my opinion in how she approaches the game and her awareness and in-game recognition keeps improving."

Burton also lauded the efforts of the Cougars' captain Andrea Frerker, saying "I thought [she] put in a real captain's performance tonight. All over effecting so much of the game. She was leading from the front as they say."

The Cougars, who improve to 2-0 on the young season, will head to Charleston, Illinois, for a Tuesday afternoon fixture at Eastern Illinois, before returning to the friendly confines of Korte Stadium for another match under the Friday night lights against UT Martin.