Score: VCU 2, Massachusetts 1
Location: Amherst, Mass. (Rudd Field)
Records: VCU 9-2-0 (5-0-0 Atlantic 10), Massachusetts 7-3-3 (3-1-1 A-10)
 
The short story: Senior center back Lana Golob scored an overtime game-winning goal to give VCU its fifth straight victory to open Atlantic 10 play.
 
QUICK FACTS

• The Rams' win streak is their best since 2018, when they also won the first five matches of the conference schedule.
• At 5-0-0 in conference play, VCU is alone atop the A-10 standings.
• Golob's goal was her second in the last four matches. She is also tied with Aileen Guthrie for the team lead in game-winning goals, with each player scoring two on the year.
• Redshirt senior goalkeeper Grace Young made a season-high eight saves to earn her ninth win of the year.
• UMass held a slight 17-16 advantage in total shots, while shots on goal were even at 9-9. VCU had a 55%-45% edge in possession, while it took 11 corner kicks compared to the Minutewomen's one.

 
HOW IT HAPPENED

• VCU held a 7-4 advantage in shots through the first half, but the match remained scoreless after 45 minutes.
• UMass got on the board first in the 69th minute through Bella Recinos with assists from Karina Groff and Chandler Pedolzky.
• VCU responded in the 77th minute with junior midfielder Anna Bagley's second goal of the season (both in the last three matches) from redshirt senior forward Lyndsey Gutzmer's assist. Gutzmer is now tied with Samantha Jerabek for the team lead with four assists this season.
• The Rams pushed for a winner late in regulation, with Jerabek taking three shots in the final 17 minutes of the half.
• Golob found the back of the net in the 97th minute, with an assist credited to redshirt senior midfielder Emma Kershner.

 
UP NEXT
VCU returns to action next Sunday, Oct. 10, when it hosts A-10 rival Dayton at 1 p.m. from Sports Backers Stadium. Sunday is Pack the Park Day, and admission is free. Every home match is streamed on ESPN+.