Sept. 2, 2007
DeKALB, IL – The Hawkeyes competed in an intense defensive struggle with Northern Illinois on Sunday, which ended in a scoreless draw after two overtimes in their final game of the NIU Tournament.
Scoring opportunities were scarce for both squads as neither team recorded a shot in the first period. Seniors Claire Goldenberg, Melisa Kaetterhenry, and Sarah Stephenson anchored Iowa’s strong back line with crucial stops in the first overtime, while freshman Jenna Aleo continued to impress in just her second collegiate game.
While happy with the defensive effort put forth by his squad, Head Coach Ron Rainey insisted the team needed to do more on offense.
“We’ve got to give ourselves more chances in the attacking third,” the Hawkeyes’ second-year coach said. “We’ve also got to stay composed. I’m pleased with our effort but we have some things we need to work on.”
When Northern Illinois turned up the heat offensively in the second period, the Hawkeyes answered, thwarting several Husky scoring chances while senior goalkeeper Lindsey Boldt made two terrific saves.
Iowa would not get an offensive shot off until the 63rd minute, when sophomore Jackie Kaeding blasted a shot that was saved by NIU goalkeeper Lindsey Curnock. Their last opportunity came in the second overtime from freshman Amanda Martin, but her shot sailed high and wide of the goal box.
Iowa returns home to host four matches over the next two weeks, starting with Missouri this Friday at 7 p.m. at the Iowa Soccer Complex.
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