UCCS defeated Westminster, 1-0, on Oct. 22. With the victory over Westminster, UCCS is in a four-way tie for first in the RMAC women’s soccer standings.
The first half was strong defensively for both teams. The sole goal of the match was scored in the 21st minute by #21 midfielder Makayla Merlo who was assisted by #6 midfielder Steenberg.
Westminster had two shots after UCCS’ goal in the 24th and 35th minute. The 35th minute shot was saved by #1 goalkeeper Isabella Whitmore. UCCS rounded out the first half with shots by #16 midfielder Anna Vince and #27 forward Jadyn Ledoux.
Both teams started the second half strong, with a shot for each team in the first ten minutes. In the 65th minute, Whitmore saved a shot by Westminster. UCCS had three shots from the 70th to 80th minute.
The first by Merlo, then #23 forward Ciara Garica and the third by #3 midfielder Kelsey Takahashi. UCCS concluded the half with a shot by Steenberg in the final minute which sealed victory for the team.
In a post-game interview, Whitmore said “I think it was a good game for us collectively. As a defense, they make my job easy.”
In the 72nd minute, #10 forward Sydney Lasater was injured. A precautionary ambulance was called, and she was escorted off the turf.
“She got hit in the back of the head with the ball pretty hard,” said Whitmore, “I think she’s going to be all right.”
With the season coming to an end Whitmore says the team agreed, “We couldn’t have no more off days. We have used up all of our free passes.”
There are three games remaining in the RMAC regular season. UCCS plays next in Las Vegas, N.M. against New Mexico Highlands on Oct. 27. The final home game of the season is Oct. 29 at 1 p.m. against Adams State.
