Lobos Post Seventh Shutout of the Season Taking Down Colorado State 2-0
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico women’s soccer team posted its seventh shutout of the season, defeating Colorado State 2-0 at the UNM Soccer Complex, as the Lobos remain undefeated at home thus far this season. The Lobos were quick to get on the board, jumping ahead 1-0 within the first minute of the match.
“In the first half, I thought we weren’t challenging enough on 50/50’s,” said head coach Heather Dyche. “I think in the second half, we responded in a great way.”
As soon as the Lobos gained possession of the ball in the first half, it was immediately put in scoring position by junior Alesia Garcia, who got the ball to junior Jadyn Edwards in the box. Edwards made a quick pass to redshirt-senior Gwen Maly, who took a sliding dive at the ball through three defenders. The ball was launched into the top left corner of the net, giving the Lobos a 1-0 in the first minute. Maly’s nine goals on the season cliches the ninth spot in the UNM record book for goals scored in a season.
The Lobos then scored in the 50th minute as junior Jadyn Hendren recovered the ball on a hustle play on the right side of the box. The junior then crossed the ball over to the awaiting freshman, Natalie DeGagne, who tapped the ball in for the 2-0 Lobo lead, serving as the freshman’s first collegiate goal.
Despite a slow first half for UNM, the team took a total of 14 shots, five being on goal throughout the match. The Ram’s offense put pressure on UNM, taking a total of eight shots, forcing four saves from redshirt-junior Malia Vanisi. Vanisi was a strong force for the Lobos and earned the shutout in the match, playing the full 90 minutes.
The Lobos will now play in the cross-divisional match set to take place on April 17 versus San Diego State. The winner of the match will be named the Mountain West Regular-Season Champion and will earn the MW’s automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament.
To keep up with all things Lobo Soccer, follow @UNMLoboWSoccer on Twitter!
