Golden Eagles Shut Out Rice in Home Opener

Aug. 28, 2009

MILWAUKEE - The Marquette women's soccer team shut out Rice, 1-0, Friday night at Valley Fields marking its first home win of the 2009 campaign. Sophomore Rachael Sloan scored the Golden Eagles' lone goal in the 51st minute to help MU improve to 1-1-0 overall.

The Golden Eagles started off the first half with a spark firing two shots on goal within the first three minutes but Rice's keeper, Meghan Erkel, was able to thwart Marquette's attacks, coming up with two saves. Marquette ended the half with ample opportunities taking a total of five shots, but the Golden Eagles were unable to find the back of the net.

Marquette's luck quickly turned early in the second half in the 51st minute when Sloan capitalized on a forward pass from junior Ashley Bares, collecting the ball at the top of the box before netting her first goal of the season, second of her career at Marquette.

After the lead was secured the Golden Eagle offense continued to create chances, firing an additional eight shots and earning three corner kicks before the final whistle blew.

For the game, Marquette outshot the Owls 15-4 and placed a total of six shots on goal, three of which were taken by Sloan. Marquette keeper, Natalie Kulla stopped three shots, while Meghan Erkel ended the night with five saves.

The Golden Eagles continue MKE Cup play when they faceoff against Michigan at Valley Fields on Sunday, Aug. 30 at 1 p.m.