Hawkeyes Fall To DePaul In Season Opener

Stats

Aug. 20, 2010

Box Score

Iowa vs. DePaul Photo Gallery | Postgame Interview With R. Rainey

IOWA CITY, IA– The University of Iowa women’s soccer team faced tough conditions in their 2010 season opener at the Iowa Soccer Complex Friday night. The Hawkeyes welcomed DePaul to town, but following an hour and twenty minute rain and lightning delay, the Blue Demons came out strong to earn the 2-0 decision.

Junior Alyssa Cosnek was the first Hawkeye to take aim at the net, but her ball sailed high in the eighth minute. DePaul kicked in its attack firing at Iowa goalkeeper Emily Moran three times in six minutes, but Moran was able to make a key save to preserve the tieless game in the 21st minute.

The keepers fended off challenges on both sides of the field until a Tara Strickland corner kick converted into a header by Callie Hemming at 40:01 for the DePaul lead.

Morgan Showalter placed a corner kick inside the six-yard box to start the second half, but a scuffle around the net left the Hawkeyes without a goal.

In the 53rd minute, senior captain Jenna Aleo lined up for a free kick following a DePaul foul just outside of the 18-yard box. Aleo fired one at DePaul goalkeeper Claire Hanold which looked to be over the line, but Hanold made the heartbreaking save.

The Hawkeyes’ defense was firm tonight defending many Blue Demon opportunities around the Iowa goal.

“We made it hard for them to break us down,” Head Coach Ron Rainey said of his team’s efforts. “We played tough in the back field.”

Iowa saw many chances inside the 18-yard box, but could not catch a lucky bounce. Kelly Blumberg took aim at a diving Moran, but the ball was just outside of Moran’s reach and hit the post. Blumberg rebounded her own ball and chipped in for the final DePaul goal.

“I was really proud of how we played in the second half,” said Rainey. “But, we had some mistakes, and next time we need to turn those into opportunities.”

The Hawkeyes return to action next weekend, hosting the Iowa Tournament. Matches will be Friday night and Sunday afternoon at the Iowa Soccer Complex.

Box Score