Wheaton, Ill. - Wheaton Women's Soccer faced off against Carroll University on Wednesday evening for their fourth conference matchup of the season. Despite nearly 85 minutes of scoreless time, Wheaton was able to clinch the game winning goal with only five minutes left in the match. This brings Wheaton's conference record to 3-0-2, while their overall record stands at 4-7-3. Carroll's conference and overall records are 1-2-1 and 2-5-7, respectively.
The match started out somewhat slow, with each team's defense preventing much offensive activity. The first shot attempt did not occur until the 17-minute mark, and the first half ended 0-0, with both teams only having two shot attempts apiece.
The Thunder came out in the second half aggressively, registering their first shot attempt only 22 seconds into the half. The Pioneers responded accordingly, amping up their own offense and making nine shot attempts in the second half. However, the match remained at a 0-0 tie for the majority of the game. It wasn't until the 84th minute that the momentum shifted. Freshman Annika Vandervelde gained possession and drove the ball down the pitch to the left corner. She then attempted a cross to the right, which was deflected by a Pioneer defender. Freshman Calah Strong was able to follow and collect the deflection just inside the 18, where she then put in the game-winning shot into the top of the opposing goal for her fifth goal of the season. The Pioneers attempted to respond, but were unable to draw even with the Thunder.
Despite the end result, the Pioneers surpassed the Thunder in shot attempts, recording 11 total shots to Wheaton's six, and five shots on goal to Wheaton's three. All five on goal shot attempts from the Pioneers were saved by Thunder goalkeeper and CCIW Defensive Player of the Week, Lydia Martin. Tonight's matchup was also a physical one, with Wheaton registering seven fouls and Carroll registering ten, and each team collecting a yellow card.
The Thunder will enjoy a couple days off before their next competition on Saturday, October 17th, at Joe Bean Stadium. Wheaton remains at home to honor their seniors before the 4:30 conference matchup against Elmhurst University. The Senior Day activities will begin at approximately 4:15 p.m.
