After two tough losses to start the season, the Xavier women’s soccer team won their first game of the season Friday night. The Musketeers defeated rival Miami (Oh) 2-1 to improve their record to 1-2-0 on the young season. Freshman Alyssa Tindal netted the game-winning goal for the women, which also happened to be her first career goal as a Musketeer. Tindal’s goal came in the 22nd minute on an assist from senior Jessica Brooks. After noticing the back side of the net was empty, Tindal decided to “give it a shot.” Fortunately for Xavier, her shot bent into the upper portion of the goal and put the women up 1-0. Not to be complacent with a one goal lead, the Musketeers responded with another goal in the 37th minute. This insurance goal, which was assisted by Chelsea Burns, came from the foot of sophomore Ashton Green. The RedHawks of Miami were quick to respond, scoring a penalty
kick before halftime to cut the Xavier lead to 2-1. The second half was a defensive battle, evidenced by the lack of goals for either team. The Musketeers had a few shots on target but were unable to put any more shots in the back of the net. The same story was true for the RedHawks, who had four shots denied by goalkeeper Katie Markesbery Head coach Woody Sherwood was pleased with his team’s ability to execute the techniques learned during practice in a game situation. “This week we implemented some additional attacking options to try to put more pressure on our opponents’ back lines. The team did a great job of buying into this and executed it pretty well this evening,” Sherwood said. According to Sherwood, she was excited for the team’s “well deserved win against a very good Miami team.” The Musketeers look to continue their success as they host the University of Evansville at 7 p.m. on Friday at the Xavier Soccer Complex.