TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – East Central University soccer continued its non-conference schedule Tuesday night with a trip to Northeastern State University, where the Tigers battled the RiverHawks in a close contest before falling 1-0 at DeLoache Field.
The Tigers created several opportunities early, with
Estrella Hernandez and
Kaylie Gonzalez recording shots in the opening four minutes.
Addisyn Brown followed with a shot on goal in the 13th minute, but the attempt was saved by the NSU goalkeeper. ECU continued to battle as the half progressed, with
Natalia Castaneda adding another shot on target late in the period.
ECU finished the opening 45 minutes with four shots, including two on goal, while
Parker Frei made three saves to keep the match in reach. Northeastern State eventually broke through in the 34th minute, finding the back of the net to take a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
The Tigers came out of the break looking for the equalizer, with
Kamryn Taylor recording a shot just over three minutes into the second half. ECU continued to create opportunities as
Sophie Maldonado put three shots on goal throughout the half, but each was turned away by the NSU goalkeeper.
Estrella Hernandez added another shot on goal late in the match, but the Tigers were unable to find the equalizer as Northeastern State held on for the 1-0 victory.
ECU finished with nine shots, including six on goal, while Northeastern fired off 20 shots and seven on goal.
Parker Frei and
Alexandra Naill combined for six saves in goal for the Tigers. ECU also earned three corner kicks, all coming in the second half.
The Tigers will return to Ada for their final non-conference matchup of the season Saturday, Sept. 12, hosting Rogers State University at Tiger Soccer Field. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
