WILMINGTON, N.C. - Junior midfielder Megan Novak scored the only goal of the contest in the 63rd minute and freshman keeper Caitlin Hunter recorded her second shutout of the season as UNC Wilmington defeated Delaware, 1-0, in Colonial Athletic Association women's soccer action Sunday at Delaware Mini-Stadium.

The Seahawks improved to 10-7-1 overall and 6-3-1 in league play as they gained sole possession of third place in the CAA standings with one game remaining in the regular season. UNCW can clinch a spot in the upcoming CAA Championship with a win or a tie against Georgia State in the regular season finale or a tie or loss by either George Mason or James Madison. The Blue Hens dropped to 5-6-5 on the season and 2-4-4 in conference action.

"All season, we have emphasized the importance of having quality set-pieces," said UNCW Head Coach Paul Cairney. "To score on a set piece, against a team that does not give up many goals, was exactly what we needed. I am very proud of our team's effort today."

Following a scoreless first half, Novak notched the game-winner at the 61:23 mark when freshman defender Lindsey Henry played a free kick to sophomore midfielder Kelly Dodd, who then played the ball to Novak in close quarters. Novak put Dodd's feed into the lower left-hand corner of the net for fifth goal of the season and her team-leading third game-winning goal of the campaign.

Delaware held a 13-10 shot advantage in the contest that was highlighted by a 10-4 Blue Hens margin in the first half, but were able to muster only one shot following Novak's goal, a shot in the 67th minute by freshman forward Ali Miller that was stopped by Hunter. Both teams attempted four corner kicks during the contest.

"Delaware had us against the ropes in the first half," Cairney said. "We defended well and were fortunate to be 0-0 at half. Early in the second half, we created more chances and we increased our pressure on the ball, which led to the free kick on the game-winning goal."

Hunter made three saves between the pipes for the Seahawks as she recorded her second shutout of the season. Delaware senior keeper Anna Bevan made three stops for the Blue Hens.  

Both teams conclude the regular season at home Friday with 7 p.m. contests. UNCW hosts Georgia State while Delaware takes on Drexel.