By FHSU SPORTS INFORMATION
EDMOND, Okla. – Fort Hays State could not get much going offensively as it fell 3-0 to Central Oklahoma in the MIAA Tournament Quaterfinals on Friday night (Nov. 8). The Tigers wrap their season at 10-6-2, while the Bronchos advance to the semifinal round at 13-4-2.
The Bronchos outshot the Tigers 12-1 in the first half. Cailey Perkins was responsible for the only Tiger shot in the first 45 minutes. In the 28th minute, UCO’s Kelsie Eason was fouled in the box, prompting an early penalty kick opportunity. Eason stepped up and knocked in her 16th goal of the season. Just five minutes later, Eason extended the lead for the Bronchos. Taryn Kedzoir dribbled down the left side of the field and crossed in a ball into the box. Eason was able to head the crossing pass through Megan Kneefel for her second of the game and 17th of the year.
The Tigers were able to test UCO’s goalkeeper Kaitlyn Asher with four shots in the second half, but none found the back of the net. Central Oklahoma tripled their lead with a goal in the 66th minute. Meridith WIlson crossed the ball from the right side of the field, landing behind the Tiger backline at the feet of Haley Post. Post volleyed the deep cross over Kneefel and the Bronchos pulled further away, 3-0.
Central Oklahoma attacked Kneefel all night with 20 shots at the senior goalkeeper. Kneefel made 11 saves out of 14 shots on goal, closing the year with an individual record of 9-5-2. Haley Post led the way for the Bronchos with seven shots, all on goal.
Fort Hays State finished with five shots on the night, including two on goal. Jenna Prince led the Tigers with two shots and one on goal.
The Tigers had a strong defensive season, allowing less than a goal per match (0.92) to their opponents. Fort Hays State shutout opponents in nine of 18 matches in 2019.