FHSU SPORTS INFORMATION DEPARTMENT
HAYS, Kan. – The 16th-ranked Fort Hays State women’s soccer team lost for the first time in 2016 on Sunday (Sept. 18), dropping a 1-0 overtime decision to Emporia State in non-conference play. The Tigers’ unbeaten streak to open the year ended at five games, a program best, as they are now 4-1-1 overall on the season. Emporia State improved to 2-2-1 on the year.
It was a defensive battle early as neither team could find a rhythm offensively. The Tiger defense was outstanding by holding the Hornets to just one shot in both the first and second halves. The Tigers managed just two shots in the first half before getting off seven shots in the second half.
In overtime, the Hornets managed three shots before getting the game winner with 1:38 to play in the period. Emporia State’s Savannah Hallier and Tanna Benefiel used back and forth passing to open up the goal on a breakaway situation. Hallier rolled the ball into the low right side of the net to claim the match.
Abbie Flax took the loss in net for FHSU saving four of the five shots that she faced. For the season Flax is 3-1-1. Yadira Rivera moved to 2-2-1 on the season for ESU.
The Tigers have four days off before returning to action on Friday (Sept. 23) in Topeka, Kan., where they take on Washburn to wrap up non-conference play. Kickoff is set for 6 pm.