Box Score

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (Aug. 15, 2006) - Senior Molly Duffy scored two first-half goals to lead the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee women's soccer team past Northern Illinois, 2-0, Tuesday night at Engelmann Field. It was the exhibition opener for both teams.

"I was pleased with how we looked tonight," head coach Michael Moynihan said. "We showed the ability to advance the ball with combinations and I was very encouraged by our energy."

Duffy struck for the game-winner in the 36th minute. Senior Stacey Faude picked off an errant NIU pass near midfield and sent a diagonal ball to Duffy. Duffy then beat a defender 1v1 and slotted a shot far post past keeper Lindsey Curnock, far post.

Milwaukee intensified its efforts after the first goal until striking again less than five minutes later. Freshman Louise Vraney tracked down a ball at the end line and sent a cross into the box. After the ball bounced around in the box, Duffy gained control and beat the Huskie keeper far post for her second goal of the game.

"Molly did well to finish her chances," Moynihan said. "She showed great composure on both of her goals."

Fresh legs gave UWM the edge in the second half, as the Panthers generated 11 shots and five corner kicks for the period. The Huskies, meanwhile, were never able to rebound, taking just one shot after halftime.

The Panthers controlled momentum of the match, throughout, playing energetic soccer to keep Northern Illinois off-balance. For the match, the home team gained the 21-5 shot advantage and 6-2 edge in corners.

Sophomore Erin Kane got the start in goal and combined with freshman Leslie Deebach on the shutout. Kane made the team's only save. Curnock finished with six saves for the Huskies.

Junior Amanda Winn led Milwaukee with four shots and freshman Louise Vraney tallied three in the start. Joining Vraney in the starting lineup was fellow rookie Erin Kreuser, while five more freshmen made their UWM debuts on the night.

"Our new people showed well," Moynihan said. "I think we would have had more goals if this had been a few games into the season. As our freshmen get more experience, they'll be finishing those chances."

UWM continues its preseason Friday, hitting the road to take on Illinois State. The Panthers and Redbirds kick off at 4 p.m. in Normal, Ill.