Cowgirls tie Utah State in soccer

by UW Athletics Media Relations

LOGAN, Utah -- The University of Wyoming Cowgirl soccer team battled to a 1-1 draw Sunday afternoon against Utah State in double overtime.

The Cowgirls and Aggies both post an overall record of 3-1-1 following the game.

"Utah State is a very good team and are very dangerous on the attack," said UW head coach Danny Sanchez. "Both teams had opportunities in the overtime periods, but overall I am pleased with how we battled back and got the late equalizer."

After the first 45 minutes the game remained scoreless. Both teams took four shots each, but USU was able to get three on goal. Freshman Courtney Merkle made three crucial saves in the first half.

In the second half, Aggie defender Stefanie Shiozaki headed the ball into the goal from three yards out at 63:24. Lauren Hansen was credited with the assist, and Utah State took the 1-0 lead.

The Aggies held the lead until UW freshman Olivia Mohtadi scored a goal that was deflected off Utah State goalkeeper Molli Merrill. The goal came at the 83:40 mark, and is the third goal of the season for Mohtadi.

In the overtime periods, the Aggies took a total of five shots, but Merkle made the necessary saves to keep the score tied at one.

The Cowgirls will return home for two games next weekend. On Friday, Princeton will travel to Laramie for the first ever meeting between the two schools. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. at the Louis S. Madrid Sports Complex. The Cowgirls will also host Idaho State on Sunday starting at 1 p.m.