After 75 minutes of back-and-forth play, the Seattle University women's soccer team broke through to earn their fourth shutout of the season over Eastern Washington University. Sophomore Taylor Fannin received a cross from junior Kara Kuttler and was able to shoot it in past the diving EWU goalkeeper to score the game-winning goal. The Redhawks, who improve to 4-1 on the season, solidified their victory 49 seconds later, when Fannin dribbled the ball into the box. This time she crossed it to Kuttler, who was able to push in a shot from three yards out.
"It is great to get our fourth shutout victory on the season," said head coach Julie Woodward. "Once again we were able to call onto our bench to perform and deliver. It is great that Taylor was able to come in during the second half and have such a huge impact."
Despite out shooting the Eagles 21-2, with 10 shots on goal to zero, respectively, the Redhawks were unable to get their offense going until midway through the second half. The first half saw the ball change possession continually and SeattleU saw sporadic chances to get the ball in the net. Kuttler made several strong runs throughout the game and fired off a team-leading seven shots, with four on goal.
While the offense was unable create many goal-scoring opportunities, the SU defense continued to play impeccably. The Eastern Washington offense rarely had the opportunity to penetrate the Redhawk backline and goalkeeper Madison Goverde had another easy day between the posts. The Seattle 'keeper posted her fourth shutout of the season.
"I am very happy with how we were able to stay in the game and much credit is due to the great play of our defense," continued Woodward. "They have been very consistent this season and have been a strong line of protection for our goal."
Along with consistent play from the fullbacks, the SU bench has been able to provide the much needed boosts Seattle has needed. In addition to Fannin coming in during the second half and playing a role in both Redhawk scores, fellow sophomores Ali Malstrom, Lauren Munechika, Brynn Watanabe and Renee Vanermause have been able to provide fresh legs in the lineup. The freshmen have also proved themselves, as Carlee Norquist has started at left outside back in all five contests this season. Fellow rookie Taylor Bolibol earned her second start in midfield, and Maddy Cartwright, Chelsea Jennings and Liana Heberer all got into the mix to help lead SU to their third straight win at home.
On deck for Seattle is a trip to take on the Cal Poly Mustangs on Friday, Sept. 4. The 7 p.m. contest will be played in San Luis Obispo, Calif. at Alex G. Spanos Field.