Tim Castaneda, Sports Writer, @xTIMBOxSLICEx
UVU women’s soccer earned their second straight shutout in a 2-0 victory over in-state rival Southern Utah University on Monday night at Clyde Field. The win keeps the lady Wolverines unbeaten at home so far this season.
Southern Utah played from behind for most of the match after giving up two goals early in the first half. Forward Kali Stubbs put UVU ahead with her goal in the first minute on a ball that deflected to her inside the box within 18 feet of the goal. The second goal allowed by SUU came off an impressive long shot by mid-fielder Jamie Brown from 30 feet out.
In spite of the early deficit, SUU continued to show an aggressive offensive attack in the first half. The team tested the Wolverine defense, constantly pushing the ball into UVU’s side of the field to provide many scoring opportunities. Despite trailing 2-0 at halftime, SUU finished the half with a 4-2 shot on goal advantage.
A strong defensive performance that lead to another shut out for the lady Wolverines ended up being too much to handle for the SUU women in the second half. After many first half scoring opportunities, SUU only got off one shot attempt in the last 45 minutes of play. Led by Captain Lexi Robison, the UVU defense worked hard all night to earn it’s second shutout of the season. Goalkeeper Jessica Duffin again showed her poise protecting the goal during the team’s current consecutive shutout streak with 5 saves on the night.
UVU women’s soccer improves to 3-0-1 at home to remain unbeaten on the team’s current 7-game home stand and improves its overall regular season record to 3-2-1. The team looks to continue it’s success at home against UTEP this Friday, September 12th at 5:00p.m. MT.
