App State women’s soccer hosted their first regular season game with a 3-1 victory over the Northern Kentucky Norse Friday afternoon.
Northern Kentucky, coming off of a 11-5-2 season, struggled late after gaining an early 1-0 lead at Ted Mackorell Soccer Complex.
After a sluggish first half by the Mountaineers where they fell behind 1-0 despite holding an 11-5 shot advantage. Goals by junior Sarah Peatross and senior Jane Cline early in the second half helped the Mountaineers grasp control of the game.
“We came out and reviewed the plan at halftime and reminded them what we said we are going to do, just reset and relax,” head coach Sarah Strickland said.
Senior Jane Cline came out of the locker room with an aggressive mindset, attempting five shots during the early portions of the second half, her energy spreading throughout the team.
The third goal came from junior Erin Settle off an amazing pass from junior Sarah Moon in the 82nd minute to seal the win.
“We were a little slow to start but I think in the second half the intensity was definitely picked up,” Peatross said.
Ball domination through the entirety of the game for the Mountaineers was apparent, especially with the shot totals being 20-9 for the home team.
“It’s just in the moment,” Peatross said. “Yes we had a lot of chances and that gives us a lot of goals and like we said we had nine shots (in the second half), and we had three goals so that’s a pretty good ratio.”
At the end of the day the more dominant team came out as the winner as the Mountaineers finished with a 20-9 shot advantage over the Torse.
Expect the Mountaineers to hit the road with some momentum before returning home against the Maryland Terrapins Sept. 4.
The Mountaineers head to the road for four straight road games beginning Sunday against the Davidson Wildcats at 2 p.m.
Quick Game Observations
- Senior Aubrey Fletcher had an assist Friday but her work all over the field was very noticeable. She may not have filled up the stat sheet but she was very active all over the field.
- Senior Lindsey Tuller is a “do it all’ player for this team and would see her anchoring the defense while also being in pursuit of goals.
- Five players on the team attempted multiple shots.
Story By: Adam Hothersall, Sports Reporter