Sept. 4, 2011
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The University of Iowa women’s soccer team posted a 3-1 win over American University Sunday afternoon. The Hawkeyes have opened the 2011 season with five consecutive wins, marking the first time in program history that a team has started 5-0.
Despite controlling the tempo for much of the first half, the Hawkeyes were unable to convert opportunities to goals through the first 30 minutes of play. Iowa recorded nine shots to American’s one during the first half.
Junior Dana Dalrymple was able to get one passed Eagle goalkeeper Arianna Efstathiou at 39:11. Senior Morgan Showalter sent a long pass ahead on the right side of the field, drawing Efstathiou out of the box. Dalrymple got to the ball first and worked her way around the keeper, hitting the net from 25 yards out.
Iowa found itself in a familiar place with a 1-0 lead at half time and a fired up opponent after the break. American wasted no time getting the offense going, recording the equalizer in the 52nd minute. Iowa’s defense broke down and allowed Sam Trotta a score from outside of the 18-yard box.
The Hawkeyes were aggressive following the tying goal. The team tallied five shots and earned two corner kicks before sophomore Katie Nasenbenny and freshman Cloé Lacasse worked together for the game-winning goal in the 75th minute of play. Lacasse pushed the ball up the field on the side line then sent the cross in. Nasenbenny chipped in from five yards out, scoring her fourth goal of the season.
Lacasse worked on her signature move, pushing the ball up field late in the second half. Using the same tactic as when she fed Nasenbenny in the box, Lacasse dribbled up the side line and into the box. The Sudbury, Ontario native was able to beat the home team’s goalkeeper herself this time, taking aim from 10 yards out. The team’s leading scorer earned her sixth goal of the year and sealed the win for Iowa.
Nasenbenny and Lacasse combine for 10 of Iowa’s 18 goals this season.
Iowa’s offensive efforts led the team to outshoot American 20-4. In addition, Iowa earned seven corner kick chances, while American had one.
In goal for the Black and Gold was senior Emily Moran. The senior keeper recorded 90 minutes in the box.
“We had a successful weekend,” Head Coach Ron Rainey said. “We’re pleased with the outcome, but we’re excited to get back to practice and get ready for the best competition of the season next weekend in Iowa State.”
Rainey and his squad host a pair of home games next weekend. Iowa State comes to town Friday (Sept. 9) and South Dakota will take the field Sunday (Sept. 11).