Oct. 17, 2009
Postmatch interview with R. Rainey
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- Iowasoccer.com
The University of Iowa soccer team had quality possessions against Illinois, but fell to the Big Ten opponent, 3-1, Saturday night in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes started strong, but failed to finish in a tough Big Ten battle.
The Hawkeyes found the net first at the Iowa Soccer Complex when Morgan Showalter found Keli McLaughlin from the left side of the 18-yard box in the 10th minute. McLaughlin punched it in from the right side of the six-yard box for the Iowa score, and her eighth goal of the season.
“We’re pressing a little bit more now which gives up a few more chances defensively against good opponents like Illinois,” Head Coach Ron Rainey said. “I think at times if we could be a little bit more composed in the defensive third, it will add to our attacks in the offensive third. I was happy with some of the things we did offensively today, but I still think we have to get some good forward runs to allow us to get some service when we do get in the box.”
The Hawkeyes nearly scored again in the 16th minute. A long run by McLaughlin was stopped just short of the goal by Illinois goalkeeper Alexandra Kapicka.
Illinois responded with attacks of their own. In the 27th minute, Julie Ewing slipped one passed Iowa goalkeeper Emily Moran from the left side. The Illini capitalized on a corner kick in the 41st minute to take the 2-1 lead at half.
Alyssa Cosnek ignited the Iowa attack in the second half with two shots in the 49th minute and one in the 56th minute. Freshman Dana Dalrymple fired at the target in the 82nd minute, but hit the left post.
Illinois scored on a converted penalty kick in the 86th minute to seal the win. Cosnek led Iowa’s offense with four shots and one on goal. Moran tallied five saves in the win.
Iowa returns to action Thursday, October 22, at 7 p.m. The Hawkeyes host Northwestern for the annual “Pink” game. Fans are encouraged to get to the Iowa Soccer Complex early, as the first 300 fans will receive a free an official Pink Weekend t-shirt.