Youth, defense even up
Eric Frey
Issue date: 8/30/04 Section: Sports
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For the first time in team history, the Western Illinois University women's soccer team didn't lose its home opener. They managed a 1-1 tie with the University of Northern Iowa Panthers.
After falling behind early on a goal from Northern Iowa's Michelle Young, the Westerwinds turned on the heat, out shooting the Panthers 27-14.
Including exhibitions, it's the third-consecutive game this season in which the Westerwinds have out shot their opponents by a considerable margin.
The Westerwinds finally broke through with the equalizer in the 75th minute when freshman midfielder Kelly Warner netted an unassisted 20-yard strike.
The Westerwinds started eight freshmen in the season opener against a Northern Iowa team that qualified for the NCAA tournament a year ago.
As good as Western's offense is predicted to be this season, the Leatherneck defense held the Panthers without a shot during both overtime periods to secure the season-opening tie.
However, coach Richard Moller said there is always room for improvement.
"I think we broke down a couple of times here and there on defense," Moller said. "We need to work on consistency and being more disciplined on defense. Otherwise, it was a tremendous start.
"Whoever saw the game saw that we literally dominated the game possessions-wise and ... chances-wise. This game could have ended up 10-3 our way," Moller added.
"Most importantly, we created the chances we wanted to create. We had great opportunities, so I was very pleased with that."
The Westerwinds will take their newfound momentum and playing style north to Huskie country where they will take on Northern Illinois University tonight at 5 p.m.
It is the first-ever meeting between the two squads and Moller said he expects it to be a tough one.
The Huskies are coming off a big season-opening victory over the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
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