NORWALK, Conn. - The Sacred Heart University equestrian team delivered a statement performance on Sunday afternoon, knocking off the No. 2-ranked College of Charleston in a dramatic 5-5 tiebreaker at Silvermine Farm.

Final Score:
Sacred Heart 5 (812)
College of Charleston 5 (790)

Of Note:
After the two teams finished even through 10 rides, the result came down to raw score, and the Pioneers rose to the moment. SHU totaled 812 points to Charleston's 790, securing one of the biggest NCEA wins this season.

Making her collegiate debut, Erin Phillips was sensational in the Flat, earning Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) honors after posting a meet-best score of 91. Her standout ride proved pivotal in the Pioneers' victory and stood as the highest individual performance of the day across both squads.

The win marks Sacred Heart's first victory over a nationally ranked opponent this season in NCEA competition. The Pioneers, who entered the weekend unranked, will look to break into the NCEA Coaches Poll when new rankings are released next week.

In Fences, Sacred Heart secured two points while Charleston earned three to take the early lead heading into the short break. Carina Muratore and Rebecca Skelton each contributed key rides for the Pioneers in the opening round. Muratore, riding Remi, delivered a sharp round that scored 85, while Skelton picked up her point aboard Ollie with a strong 80.

Coming out of the break, SHU tallied three more points to complete the comeback. Erin Phillips, riding Ollie, impressed once again in her debut performance, while Kylie Hwalek and Muratore added crucial Flat victories. Hwalek posted an 84 on Alfie, and Muratore matched that mark with an 84 aboard Solo, helping Sacred Heart rally to tie the meet and force the decisive tiebreaker.

Up Next:
The Pioneers are back in action on Sunday, November 9, as they travel to Hanover, N.H., for an NCEA road showdown against Dartmouth.