Grace’s upset bid spoiled in OT
PRESCOTT, Ariz. – Grace’s women’s soccer team nearly pulled off an NAIA Top 25 upset on Saturday at No. 19 Embry-Riddle (Ariz.).
The Eagles (4-1) scored in overtime to win 1-0 and hand Grace its first loss of the season. Saturday’s match, played in Arizona, started at 10 p.m. Eastern time.
The Lady Lancers (4-1) had several goal-scoring opportunities early in the match, putting the Eagles back on their heels. Within five minutes of play, Shelby Fort and Anna Kuhl both had shots at ERAU’s goal to threaten the hosts.
The teams were unable to find a scoring connection in the first half despite a combined 14 shots.
Both sides increased their attack after halftime in pursuit of a game winner. Grace took eight shots in the final 45 minutes but could not find the back of the net.
Joana Schimmel had a pair of shots saved in the last five minutes, and Kuhl and Jenni Phillips also had shots saved in the second half.
Bethany Blackwood was strong in goal for Grace to keep ERAU off the scoresheet in regulation, sending the game to overtime.
The match ended just minutes into the overtime session. The Eagles scored off a rebound in the penalty box for the golden goal winner.
Blackwood was credited with 16 saves in a sharp performance. Schimmel tallied three shots, all on goal, and Phillips, Kuhl and Kristen Bellinger each tried two shots.
The Lady Lancers will end their Arizona trip on Monday with a match at Arizona Christian.
