ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Northwestern Women's Soccer Team returned to its home turf on Wednesday after securing a win against UW-Stout just two days prior. The Eagles showed grit through the quick turnaround in their game against Central College, but ultimately fell 0-2 to the Dutch.
The Eagles' first real chance came in the 20th minute when
Britta Holter (Hudson, Wis./Hudson) switched the field to
Marie Kendall (Dakar, Senegal/Dakar Academy). Kendall broke past one defender and sent the shot mere inches from the far corner. A cutting
Naomi Meehan (Waconia, Minn./Homeschool) nearly got to the ball on the opposite side, but it dribbled out before she could get a foot on it. With two minutes remaining, it seemed as though Central would take the 1-0 lead in the halftime break, but the goal was called back due to an offside call.
Four minutes into the second half, the Meehan duo connected for another great look on goal for UNW.
Naomi Meehan (Waconia, Minn./Homeschool) crossed the ball in the box. The Dutch blocked the cross, and the ball landed at the foot of
Ada Meehan (Waconia, Minn./Homeschool), who took the shot, forcing a diving save from the central keeper. The red-hot Holter also tested her range, taking a shot in the 60
th minute from 30 yards out. The outstretched fingertips of the Central goalie spoiled the solid shot attempt. Kendall added another shot on target that was saved in the 67
th minute, aiming for the top corner. Central finally broke through, scoring in the 80
th minute to take the 1-0 lead. Another goal for Central snuck through in the 87
th minute.
UNW is now 2-1-1, securing one of the best non-conference starts in program history, finishing undefeated against WIAC and MIAC opponents.
Ada Meehan (Waconia, Minn./Homeschool), Holter, and Kendall were the only Eagles to collect a shot attempt, with Kendall ending with six total shots and two on target.
Sam Hansen (Cottage Grove, Minn./New Life Academy) played all 90 minutes in net, grabbing four saves.
The Eagles will open conference play on Saturday at home, taking on the Bethany Lutheran Vikings at 4:00 PM.
