MISSOULA, Mont. – A match marked by possession and defensive resiliency saw Seattle University women’s soccer settle for a a 1-1 draw against the University of Montana Grizzlies in its first road trip of the season.
A high press and energized attacking tempo gave the Redhawks a 1-0 lead in the fourth minute. Forward Kailee Wilson spun past her defender and whipped in a cross that deflected off a Griz center back to put Seattle U on the board. The goal, officially recorded as a team goal, snapped Montana’s six-match shutout streak.
With the Redhawks in front, head coach Julie Woodward’s squad focused on maintaining possession, controlling tempo and relying on defensive shape — resulting in zero shots on goal for Montana in the first half.
Defensive work from the front line of Wilson, Caroline Penner and U’i Kaaihue allowed Seattle U’s midfield block to occupy space and intercept errant passes to spark counterattacks.
On her return to her home state, goalkeeper Kassidy Kirgan put on a showcase. The junior kept Seattle U in the game, nullifying Montana attacks late in the first half and early in the second as the Griz began to find their footing.
A lightning-quick save from Kirgan in the 50th minute, paired with her physical presence off the line, frustrated Montana’s forwards. Officially credited with one save, her presence and steady hands were enough to hold the Griz scoreless from open play.
Montana leveled the score in the 53rd minute, converting a penalty to the bottom-right corner of Kirgan’s net to spark a flurry of attacks. The Redhawk back line held strong, clearing crosses and distributing to midfield outlets.
Seattle U pushed for a winner, picking up the pace after the penalty. Bella Bonnett forced a save with a long-range strike in the 76th minute, while Wilson stunned the post with a close-range shot in the 85th. Despite the late surge, the Redhawks couldn’t find the breakthrough, settling for a 1-1 draw.
Seattle U remains in Missoula for a Sunday, Aug. 24, neutral site a matchup against the University of Denver in the final game of the Rumble in the Rockies. Kickoff is set for 9:30 a.m. Pacific.
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