Photo by Jeff Barrett
By Calvin Jensen
In the final regular-season matchup, Utah State Eastern’s women’s soccer team faced a tough SWAC opponent in the fifth-ranked Salt Lake (SLCC) Bruins on Saturday. Despite their best efforts, USU Eastern ended the game with a 4-1 loss.
The first half of the game saw SLCC taking an early lead, with Lexi Vernsey scoring twice, both goals coming at the 8:24 mark. The first was assisted by Anna Pinegar, while the second had Caitlyn Parry providing the assist. USU Eastern fought back, with Lauren Maxfield scoring an unassisted goal at 10:10 to narrow the gap. However, Salt Lake added another goal at the 20:19 mark when Anna Pinegar found the back of the net, resulting in a 3-1 score at halftime.
Despite the uphill battle, USU Eastern battled in the second half. However, Salt Lake extended its lead with a goal by Abbit Sanford at the 50-minute mark with the final score standing at 4-1 in favor of Salt Lake.
The Lady Eagles tallied 12 shots to the Bruins’ 20. USU Eastern goalkeeper Macy Clements made a valiant effort with eight saves, trying to keep her team in the game.
Following an impressive season, the Lady Eagles remain in the #2 spot in Scenic West standings. They will now prepare for the SWAC Region 18 Tournament to be held Oct. 26-28 at host Salt Lake Community College in Taylorsville, Utah.
More information on the women’s soccer Region 18 Tournament can be found at usueasternathletics.com and on USU Eastern athletics’ social media platforms (Facebook, X, and Instagram).