Early Goal Downs Crusaders

IRVING, Texas - The UD women's soccer team played the final game of their homestand this evening against Concordia University-Texas.  The Tornados got on the board early and held on for a 1-0 win in a tightly fought contest.

The Crusaders were caught on the heels the first few minutes, the Tornados looking quite threatening and nearly netting the first goal inside the first five minutes.

UD eventually settled in, and found great success pressuring the Tornados back line.  They were able to carve out a few half chances, but just lacked the finishing touch needed to find the back of the net.

After 15 minutes, Concordia had the reward for their efforts, going up 1-0 on a quick counterattack.

Monica O'Donnell nearly equalized for the Crusaders a few short minutes later with a hit on the half-volley from the edge of the box.  The shot nearly floated right under the crossbar, but the keeper was equal to it.  The Tornados nearly doubled their lead shortly after, but Kaitlyn Vess made a brilliant close range save after a deep ball into the box toward the back post.

UD nearly put together a lethal counterattack of their own, a through ball down the right side finding Claire Reed in acres of space.  The ensuing cross into the box was just barely cut out by a Concordia defender, preventing the shot on goal.

You couldn't separate either side in the final 10 minutes, as the first half petered out with Concordia leading 1-0.

The second half was frantic, Concordia trying to add to their lead, and UD desperately searching for the equalizer.  Despite the manic pressing of both teams, the chances that were created were of little consequence.  Of the 10 shots taken in the second half, only four were on target, with neither keeper particularly troubled.  Both teams had a handful of "nearly there" moments, with some rapid counterattacks and good passing moves, but in the end defense dominated the game.  Concordia were able to hang on for the 1-0 win.

Up Next

The Crusaders are back in action this Sunday against University of the Ozarks.  Kick-off is set for 2:00 p.m. in Clarksville, Arkansas.