Box Score Score: N.C. State 5, VCU 0
Location: Richmond, Va. (Sports Backers Stadium)
Records: VCU 0-3-0, N.C. State 1-2-1
 
The short story: N.C. State jumped to an early lead and never looked back as VCU dropped its home opener Sunday at Sports Backers Stadium.
 
PITCH SIDE

• The Wolfpack outshot the Rams 18-11 in the contest, including 10-2 in the first half on the way to an early advantage
• VCU did manage a number of late chances and outshot N.C. State 9-8 in the second half
• N.C. State also owned a 7-4 edge in corner kick opportunities

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Mana Nakata staked the Wolfpack to a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute when she fired a left-footed, 35-yard rope to the far post. N.C. State added goals in the 29^th (Abi Hugh) and 45^th (Annika Wohner) minute to take a 3-0 halftime lead
• Goals by N.C. State in the 49^th and 53^rd minute – Wohner's second of the day – snuffed out any potential comeback by the Rams
• VCU did create a number of late chances, including a pair of shots each by senior Carleigh Frilles and sophomore Jazmine Jackson in the second half, but were unable to find paydirt
• N.C. State's Oliva Pratapas made nine saves to keep the Black and Gold at bay 

NEXT UP
The Rams will return to the pitch on Thursday, Aug. 29 when they host William & Mary at Sports Backers Stadium. That contest will kick off at 7 p.m.