Box Score
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Notes
CHICAGO, Ill. (Oct. 13, 2006) -
Freshman Louise Vraney scored in the 102nd minute to lead the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee women's soccer team past Loyola, 1-0, in two overtimes Friday afternoon in Chicago.
Milwaukee (12-2-1, 5-0 Horizon) pushed its unbeaten streak to nine games (8-0-1) and remained perfect in league play. Meanwhile, the Ramblers (9-5-2, 4-1-1 Horizon) suffered their first league loss of the season.
"This was a good game for the Horizon League. This was two good teams slugging it out for first place in the league," Milwaukee head coach Michael Moynihan said. "I give our players credit. They were playing on field turf, in front of aggressive fans and against a good team. To come out of it with a win is a good sign of maturity."
Junior Amanda Winn started the game-winning play in the 102nd minute sending a ball into the far corner. Senior Stacey Faude tracked down the ball and one-timed a cross into the center of the 18-yard box. Vraney was there to head the ball into the net for the game-winning score.
Loyola came on strong late in the game, controlling possession for much of the second half and most of overtime. The Panthers did not generate many shots, but were able to get the shot that counted. For the match, LU held the edge in shots (9-8) and corner kicks (3-1).
Sophomore Erin Kane made three saves to pick up the shutout, her ninth of the season and the 22nd of her career. Loyola's Emily Peick made two saves for the match.
Loyola was the more aggressive team after halftime, generating holding an advantage in possession and taking three more shots (7-3) in the second half. Milwaukee dodged some defensive miscues to escape the half unscathed. On offensive end, the Panthers looked dangerous, but were unable to generate many shot opportunities.
"The game had an unusual flow to it. In the first half, we came out really well. We, unfortunately, hit the post and then the crossbar," Moynihan said. "In the second half, Loyola really gave it to us, winning a majority of balls in the midfield. But, even though we were against the ropes against a good team, we still had a number of scoring opportunities."
In overtime, the Ramblers had a chance to score the game-winner with just over a minute to go in the period. Kane saved a lofted shot off the cross bar, but two Loyola players crashed the goal and tried to score the rebound. But, they were whistled for a foul and the attack was halted.
The first half was fairly wide open, with both teams pushing forward and creating opportunities. Each defense was up to the task, though, as UWM had a scant 3-1 lead in shots. The Ramblers forced both corners in the frame and were whistled for four more fouls (7-3).
Milwaukee nearly broke through in the 10th minute when freshman Kate Megna volleyed a long ball past the Loyola defense. Vraney ran on to the ball and slid a shot that ricocheted off the far post.
Winn also hit the cross bar in the first half. In the 39th minute, the Ramblers were whistled for a hand ball just outside the 18-yard box. Winn stepped up and drilled a shot off the bar.
The Panthers return to action Sunday, hosting Butler at Engelmann Field. Kick off is set for 1:30 p.m., following the UWM men hosting Cleveland State at 11 a.m.