Kansas City
Southern Utah
Kangaroos Record First Program Win And Shutout Southern Utah, 2-0
10/16/2009 8:30:00 PM | Women's Soccer
Kansas City, Mo. -- The UMKC women's soccer team hosted Southern Utah out at Durwood Soccer Stadium and Recreational Field on Friday for what would be a night of firsts. The Kangaroos recorded their first win in program history, defeating the Thunderbirds, 2-0. UMKC improves to 1-13-1 on the season and 1-4 in The Summit League, while the Thunderbirds fall to 3-9-2 on the year and 1-3-1 in league play.
The Kangaroos took an early lead in the first half thanks to a goal by Ariel Rank. The sophomore took a free kick in the 12th minute about 25 yards out and hit the uppper-90 on the right side for her first goal of the season.
The defense held strong and escaped the first half with a 1-0 lead, despite facing 13 shots.
Both teams emerged out for the second half and Southern Utah threatened to tie things up, posting 11 second half shots. But the Kangaroos would get a little of cushion with another goal for a 2-0 lead.
In the 74th minute, the `Roos were down on the Thunderbirds end and a botched clear from Southern Utah's goalkeeper would leave a wide open net for Zaina Mayer, who sent the ball to the back of the net for her fourth goal of the season.
In the end, one goal would prove enough to give the Kangaroos their first program win, crediting Rank with the game-winning goal.
Finnell recorded 11 saves on the evening and the `Roos were able to seal the win despite being outshot 24-6. Finnell, meanwhile, recorded her first collegiate shutout.
The UMKC will hit the road next weekend for a trip to the Dakotas. The Kangaroos will face South Dakota State on Oct. 23 at 6 p.m. before traveling to Fargo, N.D., on Oct. 25 to take on North Dakota State.
