WAVERLY, Iowa - The University of Dubuque women's soccer team traveled up to Wartburg College on Wednesday to face the Knights. The Spartans got off to a quick start, and a goal from Sarah Thompson lifted UD to a 1-0 win, improving their record to 4-1-0 in conference play and 8-5-2 overall.
In the opening minutes, the Spartans controlled the game, pressured the Knights in their own half, and earned two corner kicks in the first five minutes. With that pressure, it did not take long to score, as on that second corner kick in the sixth minute, the ball was sent in by Claire Husnick and after hitting off a Wartburg defender, Sarah Thompson was first to the ball, scoring the opener to take a 1-0 lead. In the 12th minute, Olivia Roth fired a strong left-footed shot, which was saved, but it kept the pressure on the Knights. Momentum shifted for a stretch, but UD's defense played tough, with Samantha Jurgens playing well in goal, making four saves before halftime.
Each team was settled into the match coming out of halftime and Wartburg attacked early, forcing three saves out of Jurgens in the opening minutes. After the 56th minute, the Spartans shut down Wartburg, refusing to allow another shot on goal for the rest of the game. Rylie Mensik nearly made it 2-0 in the final five minutes with a strong shot from the top of the box that was saved off the post. After a staunch defensive effort, it was the early goal that earned the Spartans a 1-0 win.
Samantha Jurgens led the Spartans in goal with seven saves to keep a clean sheet, her seventh of the season. Sarah Thompson scored the game-winner in the opening minutes, assisted by Claire Husnick.
Up Next
The Spartans will gear up for their final two regular-season conference games. On Saturday, October 24, the Spartans will celebrate Senior Night as they face the Simpson College Storm. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at Oyen Field.
