March 5, 2007
IOWA CITY – The University of Iowa soccer team opened its 2007 spring schedule February 24 with a 2-0-1 record. Iowa defeated Missouri (2-1) and North Dakota State (2-0) and drew against Drake (1-1). The matches were played in “The Bubble” on the University of Iowa campus. Iowa was the only team to finish undefeated.
The Hawkeyes defended very well against Missouri and were able to take a 2-0 lead before the Tigers scored their only goal.
“It was a great result against a very strong team in Missouri,” Head Coach Ron Rainey said. “The victory displayed a great deal of improvement. Missouri defeated us in the fall season and I think it showed our improved ability to create and finish scoring opportunities.”
Iowa turned in another solid performance against North Dakota State, highlighted by some creative chances by the Hawkeye attacking players. Iowa’s defense had another strong performance in the shutout.
“Our game against North Dakota State was another strong game,” Rainey said. “We did a much better job of controlling the flow through possession and did a great job defensively in the shutout.”
Drake took an early 1-0 lead, but the Hawkeyes battled back to earn a 1-1 draw.
“Our last game against Drake was a battle, like it usually is,” Rainey said. “We showed great composure and determination in battling back to earn the draw.
“We are very pleased with the progress shown thus far in the spring,” Rainey added. “We look forward to continuing our work as we prepare for a difficult spring schedule.”
The Hawkeyes return to action Saturday, March 24 at Saint Louis University. Iowa will face the Billikens, a team that advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2006. Other teams and game times are to be announced.