By FHSU SPORTS INFORMATION
The Fort Hays State women’s soccer team wrapped up their non-conference schedule with a 1-0 victory over Washburn. It is the Tigers’ fourth win of the season and they head into MIAA play at 4-2. All four of their wins have been shutout victories. Washburn is also 4-2 on the year.
Neither team could find the back of the net for the first 45 minutes. The Tigers had a couple of solid chances to break the scoring open, including a header from Maja Persa off a corner that fell right into the lap of Washburn’s goalie Raegan Wells (4-2). FHSU tallied two more shots before the first 45 minutes ended.
It did not take long for the Tigers to break the scoreless tie. Just 1:30 into the second half, Cailey Perkins stole a pass and found the left corner of the net to put the Tigers up 1-0. The defense and Megan Kneefel stalled the Ichabod effort and gave the Tigers their fourth win of the season. Seniors Paige Utterback and Shayla Podlena earned the hardhats defensively as they played the full 90 minutes. Midfielder Tessa Irvine also played the entirety of the match.
With tonight’s victory, senior goalkeeper Megan Kneefel (3-1) picked up her 18th career win, moving her into a tie for second place with Abbie Flax (2014-2016) in career victories. Kneefel also picked up her 12th career shutout.
Each team had nine shots throughout the match. FHSU tallied five shots on goal taken by Cailey Perkins, Darby Hirsch, Tessa Irvine, and Maja Persa (2). Washburn mustered up four shots on goal with two each from Mackenzie Menke and Olivia Grasso.
The Tigers look to continue their seven-game home win streak on Sunday as they open up MIAA play against Emporia State at FHSU Soccer Stadium. Last week, the Hornets defeated the Tigers 4-2 in Emporia in non-conference play. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.