ANGOLA, Ind. – Strong ball control was key for the Trine University women's soccer team as they defeated the visiting squad from Hanover College by the score of 2-0. The squad outshot the opposition 21-6 in the contest on the way to the victory.
"Today was a really good result against a strong opponent," said head coach Gary Boughton, "The most encouraging part is that we are still improving as we get these results."
Despite controlling the tempo from the early moments of the game, the Thunder were unable to score a goal during the first half. Sophomore Teresa Ashbrook was the bright spot for the team during the period, forcing two tough saves from the Panthers keeper.
The team wasted little time turning the pressure into goals in the second half. In the 52nd minute Ashbrook got the ball inside the penalty area, but instead of firing a shot she passed it back to freshman Andi Lipic who converted the shot for the first goal of the game.
The team doubled that score 16 minutes later. This time junior Taylor Noll muscled her way through the final defender before pushing the ball past the goalkeeper. Both goals are the first of the season for Noll and Lipic.
"We've got a lot of depth on this team, and we're getting scoring from a lot of different players early on," continued Boughton, "I'm hopeful that continues to make us difficult to play against."
Down two, Hanover began to take more risks and press forward, but the Thunder were up for the task. They would keep them from scoring despite the renewed effort and the game ended 2-0 in favor of the home team.
The team improves to 3-1 following the win. Their next competition will come when they travel to face Indiana University on Wednesday, Sept. 14. The match, which will be played on Jerry Yeagley Field at Bill Armstrong Stadium is set to kickoff at 5 p.m.