Oct. 26, 2012

Box Score

Photo Gallery

OREM, Utah -- A conceded goal just before halftime proved the difference as the Utah Valley University women's soccer team fell 1-0 to Montana Friday night at Clyde Field.

"Montana is a good team," said UVU head coach Brent Anderson. "We've had some good battles with them in the past and I thought both our teams had been playing well coming into the match. I thought we had a good game plan coming in but it didn't work out the way we had hoped."

Despite being outshot 19-7 in the match, the Wolverines (6-11-1) kept the Grizzly (11-6-2) attack in check for much of the contest. But UM, holding UVU to only one shot on goal for the full 90 minutes got all it needed right before the intermission.

Midfielder Paytyn Wheeler took possession in space just outside the attacking third, and began a long run to the top of the 18 - all the while the ball at her feet. The sophomore then lifted a high shot to the far, right post that dropped into the corner to break the scoreless tie.

The Wolverines got forward and created more chances towards the end of the match, but could not find the final pass to free up a real scoring opportunity.

"We need to take this experience, clean up a few things, and get ready for Monday," added Anderson.

Defender Lexi Dunn played all 90 minutes for UVU, while goalkeeper Lauren Sack finished the match with seven saves.

Friday night was also Senior Night for the Wolverines, as the careers of Nicole Slater, Shalayne Janis, Jaime Lyons, Kelsey Cook, and Regan Benson were recognized prior to the match.

UM, which clinched a share of the Big Sky regular season title last week, now turns its attention to the Big Sky tournament, which begins Nov. 2.

UVU returns to action Monday in the regular season finale against Great West Conference foe Delaware State. The Hornets were the only team to beat the Wolverines in conference play last season. That match will kick off at 7 p.m.

Should DSU lose to Houston Baptist in its match Saturday, the Wolverines will clinch their second consecutive GWC Regular Season title. However, a Hornet win on Saturday makes Monday night a de facto championship - the winner taking the regular season crown.