EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire fell to University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 2-1 on Saturday at Simpson Field. Despite a strong effort with eight shots on goal, the Blugolds managed only one goal. UW-Whitewater secured the victory with two second-half goals, overcoming a lat push from the Blugolds to claim the win.
The match commenced with the Blugolds and UW-Whitewater both eager to establish control.
Bella Jones, in goal for UWEC, was pivotal early on, making crucial saves, including a stop against Brooklynn Carlson's shot in the 15th minute. UW-Eau Claire's
Haley Von Rentzell generated an offensive opportunity in the 11th minute with a shot that sailed just over the bar, while
Emma Donovan was active, attempting multiple shots and forcing a team save in the 25th minute.
Despite several attempts on goal by both teams, including a well-placed shot by
Sabrina Pickart that was saved by Kara Smith, neither side was able to break through. The half concluded with the score level at 0-0, as both defenses held strong and kept the opposition at bay.
The second half began with significant action as UW-Whitewater took the lead early. In the 50th minute, Brooklynn Carlson found the net with an assist from Rowan Severson. This momentum continued when Summer Curtis extended the lead in the 56th minute, assisted by Carlson, resulting in a 2-0 advantage for UW-Whitewater.
The Blugolds responded with a series of offensive efforts.
Emma Donovan and
Olivia Lukrafka Varassin each had shots saved by Kara Smith, maintaining pressure on the visitors. In the 85th minute,
Jayda Swopes scored with an assist from Donovan, narrowing the deficit to one goal. Despite several late attempts, UW-Eau Claire closed the half down 2-1.
Jones made five saves over 90 minutes, facing 15 shots in the match. Swopes scored one goal from two shots, with one shot on target. Donovan provided one assist and led the team with four shots, two of which were on goal. Lukrafka Varassin managed three shots, hitting the target twice.
UW-Eau Claire holds a record of 2-9-4 overall and 1-2-1 in conference play. UW-Whitewater stands at 6-5-5 overall and 1-2-1 in conference play.
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