DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque women's soccer team took on the College of St. Scholastica Saints on Thursday night. In a hard-fought battle, the Spartans were unlucky to fall 3-1 at the final whistle.
To open the first half, the Spartans pressured the Saints and generated chances, taking five shots before the 20th minute. In the 24th minute, against the run of play, the Saints took a 1-0 lead over the Spartans. After multiple chances, UD nearly scored on six corner kicks, each leading to a great opportunity. A closely fought first half ended with the Spartans down 1-0 at the break.
In the second half, UD defended, and Samantha Jurgens made her third save of the match early. After 65 minutes played, the Spartans found themselves down 3-0, but Rylie Mensik found the back of the net late to light a spark. Mensik scored in the 79th minute off a corner kick from Claire Husnick, when the ball found its way to Mensik, where she was able to collect it and strike the ball into the back of the net. With a fire lit, the Spartans continued to push forward, and in the 88th minute, they were awarded a penalty after the Saints goalkeeper crashed into a Spartan in the box. Unfortunately for UD, the Saints goalkeeper guessed correctly, and the kick was saved. The match ended with the Spartans falling 3-1 to the Saints.
Leading the way for the Spartans was Rylie Mensik with the lone goal assisted by Claire Husnick. Maelyn Kluever and Richey Taryn both led the team in shots with three each.
Up Next
The Spartans will have a quick turnaround as they face Dominican University at home on Saturday, September 12. The game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Oyen Field.
