On Sunday, Oct.15, the Southern Utah University soccer team welcomed the Tarleton State University Texans for a conference showdown. With playoff implications on the line for both teams, the Thunderbirds prevailed in a 1-0 win.

The first half was a defensive showcase for both teams, with only a combined seven shots and three on goal. This set the tone for the game as both teams went into halftime tied 0-0.

The offense would come alive in the second half for the Thunderbirds, doubling their shots on goal total from the first half. This would ultimately cultivate in the 67th minute when redshirt senior Ashley Rivera connected with junior Mayu Yamamoto. The fastbreak resulted in a clean shot and a goal for the Thunderbirds, giving them the 1-0 lead.

The defense would hold strong, especially from sophomore goalie Julia Ortega who totaled three saves on the night and aided the Thunderbirds to a shutout victory. With the win, the Thunderbirds move to 3-8-5 on the season and 3-3-1 in conference play. The loss moves Tarleton to 4-10-3 overall and 1-5-1 in conference play.

Quotes from Kai Edwards
"Team competed today. Really happy for the team getting six points this weekend and our three seniors Alison Keller, Kiki Stewart and Ashley Rivera leave the Thunderbird soccer field with two straight wins. We need to go to Seattle and control what we can control."

Up next

The Thunderbirds now look to protect their winning streak on the road against conference powerhouse Seattle University. That game will take place on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 8 p.m. MDT. The game can be streamed on ESPN+.

Author: Aidan Mortensen
Editor: Anden Garfield

Follow Us

For all the latest on Southern Utah Soccer, follow @SUUSoccer on Twitter and Instagram and like the Southern Utah Soccer Facebook page.

Donate

To help support Thunderbird athletics consider making a donation today! To learn more about how you can support click here.