Posted: Sep 11, 2023

ONU FIGHTS HARD BUT LOSES BATTLE AGAINST NO. 2 UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS

Cumberlands (KY)

(5-0-2)

Olivet Nazarene (IL)

(1-2-2)

Final

Cumberlands (KY) (5-0-2)

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

BOURBONNIAS, IL. – Olivet Nazarene University's women's soccer team dropped the final match of the ONU Classic to the University of the Cumberlands, losing 1-4 at Snowbarger Athletic Complex on Monday.

First Half: Promising Start for ONU, Tigers Can't Hold On

The match started with an impressive display of teamwork from ONU as they took an early lead in the 5th minute. Senior midfielder Marissa Anderson rose above the defense, heading the ball into the net with precision. This beautiful goal was made possible by an excellent assist from senior midfielder Abbey Cash, setting the stage for an exciting contest.

However, the University of the Cumberlands quickly responded, equalizing the score in the 10th minute. Junior defender Sarah Hammerstone made a powerful play, converting an assist from junior forward Jayden Boelter into a goal.

In the 26th minute, Cumberlands managed to take the lead. Sophomore midfielder Carola Fontan demonstrated her skill, finding the back of the net with an assist from freshman midfielder Kallen Fuller. ONU continued to put up a strong fight, but the Cumberlands' defense held firm, denying any further goals in the first half.

Second Half: ONU Faces Uphill Battle

The second half saw both teams striving for dominance, but it was Cumberlands that managed to extend their lead in the 54th minute. Freshman midfielder Anabel Luedecke capitalized on a well-executed play, receiving an assist from sophomore midfielder Noah Paalman and converting it into a goal. The Tigers encountered a challenging struggle in their effort to reestablish themselves in the game.

Despite the relentless efforts of ONU, Cumberlands secured their victory with a fourth goal in the 72nd minute. Boelter scored the final goal for the Cumberlands, putting the match beyond reach for ONU.

Looking Forward

Despite the tough loss, ONU remains undeterred and eager to bounce back as they look forward to their next match. The Tigers are set to face off against St. Ambrose University in an exciting home game at Snowbarger Athletic Complex on Sept. 19^th. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. CST.

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