Posted: Sep 09, 2023

ONU CLINCHES SEASON HOME OPENER WIN AGAINST GRACE COLLEGE

Grace (IN)

(2-3-0)

Olivet Nazarene (IL)

(1-1-2)

Final

Grace (IN) (2-3-0)

Olivet Nazarene (IL) (1-1-2)

BOURBONNAIS, IL. – In an exhilarating season home opener, Olivet Nazarene University's women's soccer team secured a resounding 5-0 victory against Grace College on Saturday at Snowbarger Athletic Complex

First Half: Francis and Loichinger Shine

The game began with palpable anticipation, as both teams looked to set the tone early. It was ONU who drew first blood in the 7th minute, with senior midfielder Keeley Francis delivering a precise shot into the back of the net. The early goal set the stage for a dominant performance by the Tigers.

As the first half progressed, ONU maintained their dominance, with senior midfielder Sara Loichinger putting another point on the board in the 39th minute. Loichinger's goal was a testament to the team's remarkable synergy on the field. The Tigers headed into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

Second Half: ONU Couldn't Be Stopped

The second half saw no let-up from the Tigers. Their hunger for goals remained unquenchable as they relentlessly attacked Grace's defense. In the 73rd minute, Loichinger struck again, securing her second goal of the match. Freshman midfielder Sofia Diaz joined the scoring in the 82nd minute, highlighting the team's depth and potential.

The final goal of the match came in the 84th minute, as senior forward Kaylee Evers found herself in the right place at the right time to tap the ball into the net. Evers was assisted by the impeccable teamwork of senior defender Abbey Cash, whose precision pass set up the goal.

Head coach Bill Bahr was ecstatic about his team's performance, stating, "I'm excited about the win, first win, home, love it! Girls played great and we can't wait for another opportunity to play on Monday at home!"

Looking Forward:

The impressive 5-0 home opener victory against Grace serves as a catalyst for ONU's next match in front of Tiger fans on Monday, Sept 11^th against University of the Cumberlands. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. CST at Snowbarger Athletic Complex.

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