Northwestern University Athletics
Saturday, February 20
Evanston, Ill.
6 p.m. CT
Northwestern
1-0-0, 1-0-0
1
vs
0
Indiana
0-1-0, 0-1-0
1st half1
2nd half2
FinalF
Indiana
0
0
0
Northwestern
0
1
1
Dramatic Win Over Indiana Kicks Off Season
2/20/2021 9:42:00 PM | Women's Soccer
EVANSTON, Ill. – The Wildcats kicked off their season with a 1-0 win at home versus the Indiana Hoosiers on Saturday night at Ryan Fieldhouse.
"It was a hard fought game with a definite edge to it," said head coach Michael Moynihan. "Probably something to be expected since these athletes haven't been able to compete in so long. I know it felt good for everyone to get out there and compete again. I'm proud of the team for maintaining their composure and earning a result. It was a great way to get started!"
Sophomore Aurea Martin nodded home an 85th minute winner on an expertly crafted set piece to secure the three points for the Wildcats. The goal was Martin's second game-winner in her career.
Martin's set piece goal was assisted by junior Francesca Docters and senior Regan Steigleder. The assist was Steigleder's third in her career and Docters' career first.
The Wildcat backline, featuring newcomers junior Hallie Pearson and first year Ella Hase along with returners Danika Austin and Chloe McGhee, posted its first shutout of the season. Junior goalkeeper Mackenzie Wood made four saves in her tenth career clean sheet.
The Wildcats also saw competitive debuts from first year Josie Aulicino who anchored the central midfield, and Meg Boade, who came on as a second half substitute. Additionally, Madison Donley. and Rowan Lapi returned to competitive action.
The 'Cats started the match on the front foot, outshooting the Hoosiers 4-3 in the first frame. Aulicino, sophomore Lily Gilbertson, Hase and senior Kylie Fisher all recorded shots in goal, with the best chance coming on a corner kick header the Indiana keeper had to palm over the bar.
Senior Nia Harris turned in a strong shift to start the second half, and nearly scored after an aggressive interception in the Hoosiers's half.
The 'Cats take on Penn State on Feb. 25 at Ryan Fieldhouse.
"It was a hard fought game with a definite edge to it," said head coach Michael Moynihan. "Probably something to be expected since these athletes haven't been able to compete in so long. I know it felt good for everyone to get out there and compete again. I'm proud of the team for maintaining their composure and earning a result. It was a great way to get started!"
Sophomore Aurea Martin nodded home an 85th minute winner on an expertly crafted set piece to secure the three points for the Wildcats. The goal was Martin's second game-winner in her career.
All it takes is one. Aurea Martin's goal seals victory for Northwestern in their season opener. @aureamartin_ x @NUWSoccer pic.twitter.com/ONwLAHmjD1
— Northwestern On BTN (@NUOnBTN) February 21, 2021
Martin's set piece goal was assisted by junior Francesca Docters and senior Regan Steigleder. The assist was Steigleder's third in her career and Docters' career first.
The Wildcat backline, featuring newcomers junior Hallie Pearson and first year Ella Hase along with returners Danika Austin and Chloe McGhee, posted its first shutout of the season. Junior goalkeeper Mackenzie Wood made four saves in her tenth career clean sheet.
The Wildcats also saw competitive debuts from first year Josie Aulicino who anchored the central midfield, and Meg Boade, who came on as a second half substitute. Additionally, Madison Donley. and Rowan Lapi returned to competitive action.
The 'Cats started the match on the front foot, outshooting the Hoosiers 4-3 in the first frame. Aulicino, sophomore Lily Gilbertson, Hase and senior Kylie Fisher all recorded shots in goal, with the best chance coming on a corner kick header the Indiana keeper had to palm over the bar.
Senior Nia Harris turned in a strong shift to start the second half, and nearly scored after an aggressive interception in the Hoosiers's half.
The 'Cats take on Penn State on Feb. 25 at Ryan Fieldhouse.
Team Stats
IND
NU
Goals
0
1
Shots
6
6
Shots on Goal
4
6
Saves
5
4
Corners
4
7
Fouls
11
7
Scoring Plays
Aurea Martin (1)
Assisted By: Regan Steigleder , Francesca Docters
GOAL by NU Martin, Aurea Assist by Steigleder, Regan and Docters, Francesca.
85:07
Game Leaders
Shots
1
SOG
1
Goals
1
Assists
0
Shots
0
SOG
0
Goals
0
Assists
1
Shots
0
SOG
0
Goals
0
Assists
1
Shots
1
SOG
1
Goals
0
Assists
0
Players Mentioned
M
/ Women's Soccer
D
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
F
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
F
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
D
/ Women's Soccer
M
/ Women's Soccer
GK
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