VERMILLION, S.D. (USD) -– South Dakota women’s soccer had its chances Sunday afternoon, but it was ultimately the Eastern Washington Eagles who prevailed with a 2-0 win at First Bank & Trust Soccer Complex.
Battling each other and the hot temperatures, the Coyotes and Eagles went back and forth in the first half. The Coyotes had 10 shots in the first half, three of which required saves from the Eagles’ goalkeeper. USD had seven corner kicks in the half and 12 for the match. Eastern Washington, meanwhile, had six shots, with three on goal and two corner kicks.
Eastern Washington got on the board off a penalty kick in the 31st minute, scored by Kendall Moore past keeper Cambell Fischer. Fischer recorded two saves and faced six shots in the first half, three of which were on goal.
Both sides used their fair share of substitutions to battle the heat throughout the match. The Coyotes had a total of 20 players see action. Eastern Washington didn’t use quite as much of its bench, subbing in seven to have a total of 18 players see time in the match.
The second half momentum swung the way of the Eagles, who were able to apply more pressure and secure five shots, three on goal, and a second goal scored by Katrina Kupp. Margot Mulhern played the second half in goal for USD, recording two saves.
The Coyotes totaled 17 shots, five on goal. Gabbie Ryan was effective off the bench for the Coyotes, getting two shots on goal, forcing the Eagles keeper into making some diving stops. Rylee Haldeman led the team with four shots on the afternoon.
Ashby Johnston had a couple of chances as well, recording three shots, one on goal. Brooklyn Bordson and Taylor Mulligan each put a shot at the keeper, but couldn’t get one past.
The Coyotes, now three matches into the young season, have a 1-1-1 record. Their next opportunity to get back in the win column is Thursday at home against Drake. The match is scheduled for a 3 p.m. start.
