OXFORD, Ohio (Aug. 27, 2023) – The UIC women's soccer team dropped its Sunday afternoon contest to Miami (OH) 1-0. The Flames had opportunities to score but couldn't connect on their shots. With the loss the Flames move to 0-2-1 on the season.
COACH'S COMMENTS
"We continue our search for the right combinations in our attack. Today's game provided us with several opportunities in both halves to capitalize on the opponent's errors, but we were unable to seize them," said Head Coach
David Nikolic.
He added, "
Makena Shaw was a catalyst in creating chances in both periods, but the final execution was just off the mark. Special performances from
Makenna Maloy,
Julia Thomson (in her first collegiate start), and
Emmy Higgins anchored the center of the field for us during extended stretches.
Shelsea Rigby maintains a consistently high level of quality in each game."
"However, despite these individual performances, our overall group cohesion needs improvement. Our upcoming opponent will demand sharpness from us, and I am expecting a good level at training this week to prepare for Thursday," Nikoloic stated.
FIRST HALF
- Makena Shaw fired a shot in the 14th minute of play, but it was stopped by Miami goalkeeper Dominique Popa.
- The RedHawk took the lead at the 25-minute mark off a goal scored by Makenna Morrison.
- Five minutes later, Miami was in attack mode again, but UIC goalkeeper Sara Sanabria kept the ball out of the net. She played the full 90 minutes and ended the match with fives saves.
- In the 42nd minute, freshman Julia Thomas fired a shot on net for the Flames, but it was stopped by Popa.
SECOND HALF
- The RedHawks took three shots before the Flames attempted their first of the half, which was taken by Katelyn Nardulli in the 57th minute.
- Makena Shaw and Emmy Higgins took UIC's only two shots on goal in the final half of action. Shaw's hit the left post, while Higgins was saved by Popa.
- The Flames attempted more shots in the second half (six) compared to the first half (two).
UP NEXT
The Flames will take on Marquette Thursday. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Flames Field. The match can be streamed on ESPN+ and live stats will be available on the Flames' website.
For more information on Flames soccer, fans are encouraged to visit UICFlames.com, or follow the Flames on social media through Twitter (@UIC_WSOC and @UICFlames) and Instagram (@uic_wsoc and @uicflames).
