LAKELAND - Polk State Soccer freshman forward Lovelie Pierre provided the heroics once again, as the No. 10 Eagles (13-1, 3-1 Region 8) defeated No. 19 Daytona State College (7-3-2, 0-3 Region 8) 1-0 on Wednesday. 

Pierre's goal in the 62nd minute broke a scoreless tie and lifted the Eagles to a sixth straight victory. The first half was an even effort between the two sides, with Polk holding the advantage in shots 10-8 and shots on frame 5-2.

The Eagles came out strong and dictated much more of the possession in the second half, which resulted in Polk outshooting Daytona State 4-1 through the first 15 minutes of the half.

Pierre's game-winning goal was a one touch to the near post off a cross on the far right side from freshman defender Edjenie Joseph. The goal was Pierre's 11th of the season.

Polk sophomore goalkeeper Sophia Nicholls made two crucial saves to preserve the lead throughout the remainder of the match, including a spectacular diving deflection in the 76th minute.

With the victory, the Eagles finish Region 8 play 3-1, which is the program's best record since the region moved to three teams.

"We are in an extremely difficult region, so to beat Eastern (Florida State College) last week and go 2-0 vs. Daytona is an incredible accomplishment," Polk State Head Coach Jessica Belli said. "I am extremely proud of this gritty effort by our girls today."

Up next, Polk heads to Temple Terrace for a Friday night showdown at Florida College. Match time is 7 p.m.