ST. LOUIS, Mo.- The Missouri Baptist women's soccer team battled hard for 90 minutes keeping the game scoreless, and in the first over time the hard work paid off as Anna Recer scored the game winner for the 1-0 victory over Central Methodist University.
Throughout the first half, the Eagles had plenty of chances to score, however, the Spartan defense was able to clear the ball away just in time. Missouri Baptist had their chances, but the best chance on the day came for the Eagles in the 40th minute of the first half.
Kelsey Vanzant stole the ball and was on a breakaway, she had a clear shot, but Spartan goalie Elizabeth Kahn came up with the big save keeping the game scoreless heading into the half.
Kahn, starting in her game on the season was huge for the team making 11 saves. Coach Deno Merrick was impressed with the poise of the young goaltender. "Elizabeth played very well in first start of the season. She showed her skill today, which helped the team to a big win." said Merrick.
In the second half, each team again had their chances but neither could capitalize. Both teams were exhausted from the fast paced play, but they were headed to overtime.
In the first overtime, Missouri Baptist was much quicker than the Eagles, and it showed. Anna Recer stole the ball from an Eagle defender and the shot Recer took flicked off goalie Brittany Andert's hand trickling across the goal line before Andert could save it.
With the victory the Spartans handed Central Methodist their first loss of the season, and Coach Merrick was pleased with his team's performance. "The girls played a very good opponent today, we showed lots of fight and heart to get that win." said Merrick.
Missouri Baptist totaled 12 shots on the afternoon, with Recer leading the way with four shots. Lindie Adair was a headache for the Spartans with her speed and shot taking ability, as Adair totaled nine shots.
The team has now won two in a row moving their record to 3-4, and will look to move to .500 on the season when the team travels to Indiana Wesleyan University on September 14th. Kickoff is set to start at 7:15 p.m.
