Michigan State University Athletics
Women's Soccer Wins Opener, 2-0
8/21/2015 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
EAST LANSING - In their first game of the regular season, the Spartan women's soccer team picked up a 2-0 road win Aug. 21 against Niagara University.
Despite a slow start in the first half, the Spartan offense ignited when freshman Michaela Kovacs capitalized on a rebound in the box in the 50th minute. Two minutes later junior Marisa Oleksiak connected on a half volley outside of the box for the insurance goal.
Head Coach Tom Saxton believes that his team "had great opportunities knocking on door" during the first half, saying that the change came when the team focused more directly on their passing.
From then on the Spartan offensive line continued to infiltrate the Eagle defense. The Spartans outshot Niagara 11-3, featuring shot attempts by sophomore Jamie Cheslik, freshman Lexy Warner, senior Kirsten Evans, and Kovacs.
Saxton praised both Cheslik and Warner, along with senior Allyson Krause, crediting them with leading the offensive drive.
Senior Gabrielle Gauruder earned the shutout win in the net for the Spartans with two saves.
"Gabby managed the box during the game," Saxton said. "She had to come up with a big save in the first half, and we were pleased with how she managed the game."
Saxton praised his defense for stepping up after an injury forced senior Mary Kathryn Fiebernitz to exit the game. He credited the Spartans with being sound defensively in a "very physical game" including windy conditions and having to grind on the turf.
Saxton said the team will look to improve on being more efficient in finishing as there were many chances in the first half of which the team was unable to take full advantage.
MSU will rest over the weekend and then travel to Texas where they will play Baylor University Aug. 24 at 8 p.m. ET.
