GOALS BY HOWES SECURE WOMEN’S SOCCER WIN OVER ST. FRANCIS (IL)

WASHINGTON, MI - Women's soccer (5-1-0) got some great play in the second half by sophomore Olivia Howes in a 2-0 win over St. Francis (IL) (0-4-2) on Tuesday afternoon. Neither team was able to create separation in the first half, but Howes was able to capitalize on miscues from the Fighting Saints.

Sophomore forward Sammi Springer got things started on the offensive end for Rochester, with two early shot opportunities. Both teams looked to control the middle of the pitch, with plenty of battles for loose balls that went both ways.

Rochester got more opportunities early on but failed to get clean touches on the ball to get accurate looks at goal. Junior Isabella Ames nearly got the first goal for the Warriors, with a header right on the line that was saved. Rochester had a close call, with a disputed handball that wasn't called.

During the first half, Rochester had two crucial injuries, with Springer and junior Dillon Sharp both going down. Entering half-time 0-0, Rochester needed to find some sort of offensive momentum.

The pace of play picked up greatly in the second half, with St. Francis collapsing on the ball to prevent runouts from Rochester. Freshman Alex Dawood and sophomore Mya Freeland nearly found the back of the net, but the Fighting Saints were able to get another crucial save.

Following a save from freshman goalkeeper Naomie Tartrou, Rochester got its first goal off a great read from Howes. On the left side of the pitch, Howes was able to get the ball from a pass between two defenders and pushed the ball towards the left side of the box. From there, Howes would kick a goal into the top right corner.

Howes' second goal came shortly after, with sophomore Kennedy Fraser finding her on another great pass, marking her fifth assist of the year. In the 83rd minute, Fraser would cross the ball towards Howes, who found an opening to score the dagger.

UP NEXT

Rochester takes a week-long break before returning to Michigan Stars to host NCAA DIII Alma on Wednesday at 11 a.m. on Sept. 20.

Hussein Murray - RU Athletic Communications

Featured Image: Hanna Swanson - RU Athletic Communications Intern