TIGERS SETTLE FOR DRAW WITH FIGHTING BEES IN CCAC OPENER

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – The Olivet Nazarene University women's soccer team struck first and held a lead for the majority of the match, but ultimately had to settle for a 1-1 draw against St. Ambrose in their conference opener at the Bahr Soccer Facility.

The first half began with Olivet Nazarene applying early pressure, as Samantha Larsen's attempts in the opening minutes tested St. Ambrose's defenses. Persistent offensive efforts paid off in the 29th minute when Aaliyah Racadio-Kahoohanohano scored the first goal, assisted by Larsen, giving Olivet a 1-0 lead. Meegan Randall secured the advantage by making a crucial save against St. Ambrose's Isabella Crawford, maintaining the narrow margin into halftime.

The second half began with a tense defensive display, as Olivet and the Bees traded early fouls and missed opportunities. Randall stood out between the posts, making crucial saves at the 61:51 and 63:13 marks to keep the game scoreless. Despite concerted efforts and several shots from Racadio-Kahoohanohano and Sofia Diaz, Olivet was unable to find the back of the net. The deadlock was finally broken in the 84th minute when Mia Vetter of St. Ambrose scored, assisted by Crawford, resulting in a 1-1 draw at the final whistle.

Randall recorded five saves while facing six shots on goal. Cassidy Garberding registered four shots with one on target. Racadio-Kahoohanohano scored once and led the team with five shots, three of which were on goal. Larsen contributed with an assist and had three of her four shots on target.

The draw moves ONU to a record of 2-0-2, including 0-0-1 in conference play. They will host St. Francis (Ill.) next Tuesday.

--ONU—

*Contact: Evan Wild, Sports Information Director, ewwild@olivet.edu