Lobo Soccer Assertive Style of Play Not Enough as They Fall to San Jose State

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The Lobos were looking to get back on track in the Golden State after a tough last weekend in Nevada. Although the stats were generally even between the two teams, the Lobos ultimately fell to the Spartans, 1-0, on Thursday night.

Both teams came out on a mission from the very beginning of the match. In the first half, the Lobos fired off eight shots and forced the Spartans goalie to make four saves within the first 20 minutes, three of those shots on goal being by Maysa Walters. The Spartans also brought out their own competitiveness with six shots in the first half, but New Mexico’s defense was solid and shut their attacks down.

Despite the obvious force by both teams in the first half, neither were able to find the back of the net in the first 45 minutes. In the second half, the Spartans picked up the pace as they fired off nine shots and the Lobos countered with five shots. Jadyn Edwards showcased her speed with a few charges in the second half, proving how she dominates so many offensive categories in the conference.

Emily Johnson continues to prove why she is considered one of the best goalies in the conference as she made many great saves throughout the second period.

The Spartans broke things open as they scored in the 58th minute to take the 1-0 advantage. With much more soccer left to be played, San Jose State looked to ensure the win by scoring another goal, but the Lobos shut them down with three blocked shots and another save by Johnson. New Mexico attempted to even the score as they fired off two shots on goal and four shots total before the time ran out, but were unable to score, falling to the Spartans, 1-0.

Although the result doesn’t represent all of the stats, the match was generally even throughout the entire time. The Lobos fired off 13 shots (six on goal), while the Spartans recorded 15 shots (six on goal). Johnson recorded five saves and San Jose State’s goalkeeper Autum Monty responded with six saves. The Lobos earned two corner kicks, while the Spartans were awarded four corner kicks. Walters led New Mexico with four shots (three on goal). Karlee Maes and Myah Isais once again led the Lobos’ defense as they consistently shut down San Jose State’s attacks in the box. Karlee Pottorff led the Spartans with three shots, including one on target.

The Lobos now sit at 9-4-1 (4-2-1 MW), while the Spartans improve to 7-8 (4-3 MW).

New Mexico heads to Fresno, Calif., to face Fresno State on Sunday at 1 p.m. (MT). Fresno State plays San Diego State tonight but are currently at the top of the standings with a 6-4-3 overall record and 4-1-1 conference record.

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