Box Score EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE women's soccer recorded a 1-0 win over Ohio Valley Conference opponent Eastern Kentucky Sunday at Ralph Korte Stadium.
The match was the last home game for the five Cougar seniors Taylor Berutti, Marissa Delgado, Jennifer Pelley, Cassidy Sherman, and Katye Skrivan, who were honored before the game.
"They've been instrumental in the things we've been able to develop in our program," said Head Coach Derek Burton of the seniors." They all contributed in a lot of ways today. I'm really happy for all of them."
The Cougars improve their OVC record to 2-4-1 while EKU falls to 3-6.
SIUE began the first period with a strong offensive attack, tallying 10 shots in the first 45 minutes of play. Despite the chances, both teams went to the locker rooms at halftime in a scoreless tie.
The Cougars finally scored in the 78th minute to tally the lone goal of the game. Alexandra Johnson gave a pass to Emily Grahl, who chased the ball up the sideline and took her defender one on one inside the box. Grahl then gave a cross to Caroline Hoefert, who got a shot from the top of the circle. The shot hit the near post before getting to the back of the net, marking Hoefert's third goal this season, the most of any Cougar.
The Colonels had seven shots in the second half to even the score, but SIUE remained diligent on defense to record the team's eighth shutout this season. Jennifer Pelley adds to her career shutout record, which now totals to 29.
Hoefert along with Ashlyn Walter and Courtney Benning led the offensive attack with three shots apiece. Pelley made three saves in the game to earn the shutout.
The Cougars finish their remaining OVC games on the road, beginning Friday at Murray State for a 3:00 p.m. match. Despite the upcoming road trips, Burton says his team will be glad for the change in pace.
"We have our sights set on getting in to the tournament and doing what we can to pick up points," said Burton. "We look forward to going on the road this weekend against two very good teams. We have been home for awhile so it'll be a change of scenery and will freshen things up for us.
"Road games are always difficult," Burton continued. "Every conference game is a battle because of the proud and intensity of the teams in our conference. We'll do everything we can to prepare our players."
