LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. — Matiana Valdez grinded in front of the opposing goalkeeper throughout Sunday afternoon.

Valdez produced the lone goal of the match against Rider as a result.

She also will have stitches to remember the battle.

Valdez tallied the game-winner when she redirected a shot from Noa Bartels van Bosbeek into the net in the 12th minute in what became a 1-0 victory for the LIU women's soccer team against host Rider at Ben Cohen Field.

Fifteen minutes later, a collision with Rider goalkeeper Ellie Sciancalepore opened a bloody gash on Valdez's right ear, which briefly forced her from the game. She ultimately returned to start the second half.

The win proved enormous for the Sharks.

LIU improved to 2-0 entering next Sunday's home opener against UMBC. It marked the program's best start since winning three straight to begin the spring 2021 COVID season.

"We're definitely seeing the hard work that they put in pay off," coach Lucy Gillett said. "They've worked really hard, and it's nice to see they're getting the results that they deserve."

Keely Thomas produced her second straight shutout in goal to begin her collegiate career. Thomas tallied five saves against the Broncs.

The decisive goal began with a corner kick from Matilda Boyle. Bartels van Bosbeek then fired a shot on goal, which Valdez used the back of her heel to redirect past the goalkeeper.

"I was covering the goalkeeper and kind of just hit it in," Valdez said.

Valdez, a redshirt sophomore defender from Wantagh, was in good spirits after the game —despite the bandage on her ear and impending stitches.

"My run was to the goalkeeper, and we collided and my ear split open," Valdez said. "It was gushing blood."