SAINT PETER, Minn. – The Gustavus women's soccer team hosted Bethel for a conference matchup on Wednesday taking a 2-1 victory. With the win the Gusties move to 4-2 in the 2021 season.
"Having a mostly conference only schedule this spring we knew every game would be a battle and today proved no different," said Head Coach
Laura Burnett-Kurie "Our team rose to the challenge, trusted each other and put together a full 90 minutes. At times, in both halves, we moved the ball brilliantly and created numerous dangerous opportunities. What an honor it is to watch this team, so incredibly fun and exciting."
Gustavus carried over the offensive momentum after their home field win over the Cobbers the week before. 16 minutes into the game,
Sophie Olson (Sr., Minneapolis) turned on a play clearing the ball to
Taylor Hemme (Sr., Eden Prarie), finding
Maddie McDermott (Sr., Mendota Heights) at the top of the box, and making a final pass to
Katie Ashpole (Sr., Chaska). Ashpole was able to deke a Royal defender out for the first goal of the day.
The Gusties kept on top of a defensive advantage and made seven saves before closing out the first half with a 1-0 lead.
Bethel entered the second frame finding their defensive groove but Gustavus ramped up their offense outshooting the Royals 12 to six and keeping them on edge with five corner kicks.
20 minutes into the second period, Hemme hustled to the top of the box and slotted the ball diagonally to Ashpole. Ashpole cut across the Bethel defender to score what proved to be the game winning goal.
The Royals responded with one goal two minutes later but
Abby Goodno's (Jr., Little Canada) seven saves and
Justine Holm's (So., Shakopee) two would kept Bethel down for the Gusties to come out on top of a 2-1 win.
"Both goals were true team goals in the build up and stemmed from strong defensive plays.
Katie Ashpole stepped up once again against Bethel and put the ball in the back of the net twice."
Wednesday's game would be the final for the Gusties this spring on their home field as they look forward to resuming a normal fall season.
"We loved playing three games at home this season and are appreciative of everyone in administration, athletic training, health and safety personnel, and groundskeeping who made this happen. Our grass field is immaculate!"
The team is back in action when they travel to Winona to face off against Saint Mary's on Sunday.
