ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico women’s soccer team went 3-0 with three shutouts in a series of exhibitions Saturday at the UNM Soccer Complex.
The Lobos played a set of three 45 minute matches Saturday afternoon against (in order) UTEP, Air Force and West Texas A&M. The Lobos were without Jennifer Munoz, who was recently called in to compete for Mexico’s U20 Team. Regardless, they controlled the pace of all three games and played much of the day in their front third. Defensively, the Lobos were flawless when pressed. Goalkeeper Laura DeMers started in all three matches and made key saves when needed.
Against UTEP in a 1-0 victory, the Lobos controlled possession and keep the ball out of their half. 18 minutes in, Katie Hinman capitalized on the constant attack by scoring the match’s only goal. Overall, UTEP had one dangerous counter and a set piece on a short corner, but the match was largely controlled by the Lobos.
The second match of the day against Air Force was much more open, with the Mountain West opponent giving the home team its best challenge of the day. While the match started even, the Lobos’ attacking style eventually took its toll on the Falcons. After several set pieces were saved by Air Force, Hinman once again found the back of the net to put the Lobos ahead 1-0 just before the final whistle. Hinman’s second game-winner came from point blank range on a great cross from Aleksandra Mihailovic.
In the final match of the day against West Texas A&M, the Lobos imposed their will on the road team and won, 3-0. The Lobos attacked early an often, and just a few minutes in earned a go-ahead goal from Quincy Slora. Maddie Irwin nearly scored but just grazed the cross bar. With the keeper pulled out, Slora cleaned up the chance in front of an open net. Up by a goal, Lauren Shull earned a brace on back-to-back goals. Both were the result of intense pressure up front, rewarding the Lobos for their strong play all afternoon.
The day served as a great opportunity for several players to earn playing time and obtain in-game experience. The Lobos saw three different approaches, and met the challenge each time.
New Mexico will hit the road for their next two spring exhibitions, beginning with Denver on Saturday, April 16.
Lobos go 3-0 in Exhibition Series
