ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Utah Valley's Faith Webber scored the game-winning goal with just 27 seconds remaining to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Big Ten foe Michigan at U-M Soccer Stadium in Ann Arbor on Thursday night in the team's season-opener.
 
With the win, Utah Valley opens the season with a 1-0 record, while Michigan drops to 0-1. UVU will continue its road trip in the Great Lakes State as the team travels to Detroit to face Detroit Mercy on Sunday evening.
 
"We focused on speed of play leading up to this match, and we talked about playing a full 90 minutes. Today, our players did just that," said Utah Valley head coach Chris Lemay. "We've had some significant wins in the program, but I don't know if any are as big as this one. I'm super proud of the entire group."
 
Webber initially put Utah Valley ahead in the 65th minute after Nixan Jackson delivered a ball from the right side to a streaking Webber, who then slotted a shot past two Michigan defenders and into the back of the net.
 
Michigan's Jenna Lang netted the equalizer with just 1:09 left on the clock, seemingly ending the game in a 1-1 draw. However, Webber had other plans, shocking the home crowd by receiving a long pass from Kate Shirts, dancing around the Michigan goalkeeper, and calmly slotting home the game-winner with 27 seconds to play.
 
CJ Graham was solid in goal for UVU, earning the win with five saves in her 90 minutes of work.
 
Utah Valley outshot Michigan 20-11 on the night, including an 8-6 edge in shots on goal. UVU also held a slight 3-2 advantage in corner kicks.
 
The Wolverines will next head to Detroit to take on Detroit Mercy on Sunday at 5 p.m. (MT). The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.