Shelby Kuni scored her first goal of the season as the University of Tampa Spartans defeated Nova Southeastern 2-1 on Sunday afternoon.

Kuni struck first for Tampa, heading in a cross from Courtney Evans in the 35th minute. Kuni finished with three shots on goal.

With eight seconds remaining in the first half, Nicole Murphy scored to put Tampa up 2-0. Evans was again credited with the assist.

The Spartans defense stayed strong through the second half, giving up only six shots with only three being on goal. Lauren Prow scored for the Sharks in the 85th minute.

Next weekend, Tampa travels to Columbus State (Ga.) to face Belmont-Abbey (N.C.) and Tusculum (Tenn.). The Spartans defeated Tusculum 5-0 last year in the NCAA quarterfinals to advance to the Final Four.

It’s more than a month until Tampa returns to Pepin Stadium for a Sept. 29 match against SSC opponent Lynn.