Despite taking a similar number of shots as their opponents, the Oklahoma Christian University women’s soccer team dropped their season opener in a 3-0 loss to Northeastern State University on Saturday.
Head Coach Randall Robison said he saw some good things during the game, but could see room for plenty of improvement.
“We had some good moments and played some quality soccer,” Robison said. “When we played within our system, we were good. When we panicked under their pressure, we struggled to maintain possession.”
The Riverhawks outshot Oklahoma Christian 18-15.
Northeastern State took the lead in the 16th minute when Northern State’s Julia Mathis converted from 15 yards out. Early in the second half, Mathis scored her second goal of the game. Melissa Giles sealed the victory with her goal in the 61st minute to make it 3-0.
Rubi Villegas Aguilar booted the ball on a low line from 25 yards out, but the Riverhawks’ goalkeeper Jordan Woodruff dove down to save it.
Woodruff had eight saves in the game while the Lady Eagles’ goalkeeper, Carina Schanz, had seven.
Robison said he gives great respect to their opponent, because they exploited his girls’ weaknesses.
“Northeastern deserves credit,” Robison said. “They were very good and kept us under pressure the entire game, forcing turnovers.”
According to Robison, his team will need to sharpen up on a few areas to be ready for a tough upcoming schedule.
“We are getting ready to play a number of good teams this season,” Robison said. “To compete with those teams, we will need to do a better job within our system.”
The Lady Eagles open their Heartland Conference play this week, traveling to Lubbock Christian University on Thursday to take on the Lady Chaps at 3 p.m.
Statistics provided by the Oklahoma Christian University Sports Information office.
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