Photo by Brad Curnow
OREM, Utah–As the Utah Valley University women’s soccer team approaches conference play, each win becomes more crucial. That’s what mentality the Wolverines had entering Monday’s game. Alexis Peterson scored the golden goal against Grand Canyon University Monday at Clyde Field in a 2-1 overtime win, maintaining UVU’s undefeated streak at home.
UVU took to the pitch with a relatively quick goal by Taylor Kirk in the 4th minute of the game. This was her second goal of the season, and her first goal at home this season.
“It felt really good, especially in a game against a conference team,” said Kirk.
The Wolverines sat on their lead for most of the first half, which led to comfort settling in, allowing eight shots on goal. All shots were unsuccessful, until the 44th minute, GCU managed to tie the game.
The second half of the game had no scoring as both teams played incredible defense. UVU managed to keep strong ball possession for the second half, with nine shots and six corner kicks. However, UVU could not turn the goal.
As the second half carried on, it got more physical as GCU’s Rachel Mina was issued a yellow card, which then caused the beloved MAWL to get overly rowdy. The ref eventually had to eject MAWL member Powell Dubois for off-color comments to the ref.
In the 87th minute, UVU subbed in Alexis Peterson, who carried on to the first overtime, and scored the game-winner in the 9th minute of extra frame.
“We battled hard the whole time,” said Peterson. “I think we started off really strong and then we kind of played at their level… When I got to go in I was just like… We’re cranking these; we’re getting this done.”
The biggest takeaway of the game was the quick enthusiasm the Wolverines demonstrated with their early goal, but then allowed complacency to settle in by remaining scoreless the rest of the match and allowing GCU to score.
“I think we started the match off really positive, and there is such a thing as scoring too early. We scored early and then it changes the game psychologically,” said UVU head coach Brent Anderson. “I think our team relaxed a little bit and it put them on notice. Grand Canyon started to play a little harder, we had relaxed a little bit, so I don’t really think we played our best after we scored.”
UVU heads to Seattle Saturday, Oct. 1, to continue preparation for conference play. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT.
