(Story Courtesy of Trinity University Sports Information Department)
SAN ANTONIO, Texas - The Women's Soccer Team hosted the NCAA Regional Playoffs for the first time since 2015. In today's matchup with Hardin-Simmons University, the Tigers worked their way to 1-0 win. The second half game-winner came from the foot of senior midfielder Kaity Ward in the 52 minute of the match.
The Tigers and Cowgirls met earlier in the 2021 season at Paul McGinlay field with Trinity coming out on top 4-1.
Senior goalkeeper Lauren Bolish recorded her third postseason shutout with four saves on the afternoon.
The Rundown
Both teams strategized well and played stout defense. Trinity put up four shots while Hardin-Simmons fired in three three shots. With seven total shots in the first half and no corner kicks between both teams, it was clear that one goal would most likely win it. Each defense made key takeaways as both sides moved the ball to try and set up good opportunities.
After coming out of the first half tied 0-0, the Tigers opened up the second half by making a push and firing two shots. The third shot of the second half was the most important of the match as it proved to be the lone goal of the day for either side. Junior forward Molly Sheridan made a run after gaining possession of the ball and found Ward who took a few dribbles and fired a shot into the back of the net.
The backline of Trinity along with Bolish played well all match and held HSU to no goals for just the fourth time all season. On the other hal=nd, the Tigers earned their 11th shutout of the season.
Coach Speak
"Not only is playing in an NCAA tournament awesome," started Assistant Coach Spencer Valdespino. "But hosting it is even better and our girls fed off the home vibes. We dictated what was on the menu for most of the match and ultimately got to decide the final meal. It'll be a quick turnaround for the second game but luckily our girls are never quite full from just one meal."
Up Next
Trinity will take on Pomona-Pitzer College at 1:00 p.m. CT in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Tickets go on sale 90 minutes before the start of the match.
