Calvin Jensen, Sports Information Director, Utah State Eastern
The Lady Eagle women’s soccer team fell to North Idaho College 2-0 on Saturday afternoon, in a hard-fought conference match in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Despite a valiant effort, USU Eastern couldn’t find the back of the net, allowing North Idaho to pull away with two late goals in the second half.
The match remained scoreless throughout the first half, with both teams generating chances but unable to convert. USU Eastern fought hard defensively, with goalkeeper Sarah Newman making crucial saves to keep the game level. North Idaho also had their moments, but the teams headed into halftime locked at 0-0.
In the second half, the Lady Eagles ramped up the pressure, outshooting North Idaho 12-3. Eastern created several dangerous chances, with players like Emmalee Christensen and Annie Heaton testing North Idaho goalkeeper Serena Hand, who remained solid throughout, finishing with five saves.
The breakthrough came for North Idaho in the 73rd minute when Amy Smith slotted home a goal, assisted by Alvine Dah-Zossu. Just four minutes later, McKenzie White added an insurance goal with an unassisted strike, putting the Cardinals up 2-0.
Despite a flurry of attempts from Utah State Eastern in the final minutes, the Lady Eagles couldn’t find a way past Hand, who earned the shutout. Newman, though valiant in goal for the Eagles with three saves, couldn’t prevent North Idaho from taking control late in the match.
USU Eastern (6-7-2, 4-7-1) will compete in their final two conference games of the season as they remain on the road first against the College of Southern Idaho. They will face the Golden Eagles on Thursday, October 24 at 1:00 p.m. in Twin Falls, Idaho. Fans can watch the game live on the Scenic West Digital Network.