WILMINGTON, N.C. - UNC Wilmington scored three times midway through the second half to break open a 0-0 contest and defeat Towson, 3-1, in Colonial Athletic Association women's soccer action Friday at the UNCW Soccer Stadium.

The Seahawks picked up their fourth straight victory as they improved to 8-5 on the season and 4-1 in league play as they grabbed a share of first place in the CAA standings. The Tigers slipped to 5-8-1 overall and 1-4 in conference action as they dropped their fourth straight.

 Following a scoreless first half, junior midfielder Megan Novak gave the Seahawks a 1-0 lead at the 59:49 mark as she headed home freshman defender Lindsay Henry's free kick from 10 yards out. The goal was Novak's third tally in as many games.

Freshman forward Stephanie Rose doubled the Seahawks advantage in the 73rd minute as she knocked home a back-post cross from senior forward Erica Rodgers to record her team-leading sixth goal of the season.

Sophomore midfielder Kelly Dodd increased the UNCW cushion to 3-0 in the 80th minute as she knocked home a loose ball inside the box for her first goal of the campaign.

Towson spoiled the Seahawks shutout bid at the 85:29 mark as sophomore forward Kaysi Ward was able to convert a rebound opportunity from 12 yards for her second goal of the season.

UNCW recorded a slim 8-7 shot advantage in the contest and held a 3-2 edge in corner kicks taken. Freshman keeper Caitlin Hunter made three saves for UNCW to pick up her third straight victory while Towson sophomore keeper Jocelyn Papciak was also credited with three saves in the contest.  

Both teams return to the pitch Sunday with league contests. UNCW hosts George Mason at 2 p.m. while Towson travels to Georgia State for a 1 p.m. kickoff.