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ONU TAKES DOWN FRIENDS IN THE OPENING ROUND
Posted: Nov 17, 2023

ONU TAKES DOWN FRIENDS IN THE OPENING ROUND

Box Score

SILOAM SPRINGS, AR. - In a gripping encounter at Alumni Field on the campus of John Brown University, Olivet Nazarene University's women's soccer team secured a commanding 4-2 win against Friends University in the opening round of the NAIA National Tournament on Thursday.

 

First Half: Early Goal Sets Tone

The initial moments of the first half witnessed a determined struggle for control as both ONU and Friends sought to establish their authority on the field. ONU managed to break the deadlock in the 16th minute when junior midfielder Alaina Bahr found the net, capitalizing on the collaborative efforts of junior forward Hannah Dela Vega and freshman midfielder Aaliyah Racadio-Kahoohanohano. Friends managed to equalize in the 25th minute, but the Tigers quickly responded. In the 39th minute, senior midfielder Sara Loichinger capitalized on an opportunity, guided by an assist from freshman defender Hailey King, putting the Tigers back in control as they entered halftime with a 2-1 lead.

 

Second Half: Tigers Take Charge

The second half unfolded with the Falcons attempting a comeback, finding the net in the 65th minute. However, ONU showcased resilience and dominance. In the 66th minute, Dela Vega, combining seamlessly with King, scored a crucial goal, re-establishing the Tigers' lead. The momentum continued, and in the 70th minute, Bahr secured her second goal of the match, assisted once again by the dynamic Dela Vega. The second half concluded with ONU sealing a 4-2 victory and advancing to the next round of the national tournament.

 

Looking Ahead

Having secured a convincing 4-2 victory in the opening round against Friends, ONU is now poised for the challenges that await them in the second round of the national tournament. The Tigers will face 8th seeded John Brown University at Alumni Field on Nov. 18th. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. CST.

 

Quick Hits

  • Final Score: Olivet Nazarene University 4 , Friends University 2
  • Bahr 16:36, 70:43, Loichinger 39:02, Dela Vega 66:51

 

Match Facts:

Alumni Field | John Brown University | Siloam Springs, AR. | November 16, 2023

 

 

 

 

 

--ONU—

 

*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu