USAFA, Col.– Freshman Head Coach Laura Busby was visibly lively during the pre-game portion of tonight’s game. His excitement mounted moments after the final whistle, as the Falcons outlasted the Black Knights in Friday’s 2-1 victory.

The Falcons’ triumph over the Black Knights marked Busby’s first victory in the Air Force.

“I’m so proud of our courage and determination tonight,” Busby said. “To give up an unfortunate goal early and then respond like we did, I was so proud. Tonight showed what Air Force football is all about.”

The Falcons ran into immediate trouble just two minutes later, as Army saw an Air Force own goal give the Black Knights an early 1-0 lead.

However, just five minutes later, Caeli Sherman ran down the left sideline before sending a cross into the box. Jenna Rubidoux received the cross from Sherman, missed a defender and had a well-placed curling shot to tie the score.

Rubidoux’s goal becomes the second of his collegiate career and his first tally since the Air Force won at the Navy a season ago.

After Rubidoux’s goal, the Falcons took control of the field for the rest of the half. At the 41st minute, Audrey Colter took advantage of the Falcons’ constant attack.

A long ball into the box ricocheted towards Colter, who tucked the ball under his right foot, fending off a well-placed shot into the top right corner of the net, giving the Air Force a 2-1 lead.

The score marks Colter’s first career goal.

The Falcons were the more offensive team, controlling most of the game’s possession. The Falcons outscored the Black Knights 17-6, while the Air Force goaltender Cammi Byche had to make only one stop during the evening.

The Air Force is now 3-0-1 in the last four meetings with the Army.

“We’ll celebrate our first win as a manager and then start preparing for another great home game on Sunday,” Busby said.

The Falcons will be looking to score on the weekend as the Air Force host Bucknell on Sunday, August 28. Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 MT.