The No. 24 University of Minnesota women’s soccer team (0-1-0, 0-0-0 Big Ten) fell to RV (receiving votes) BYU (1-0-0, 0-0-0 Big 12), 3-1, on Thursday evening at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium in front of 936 spectators.
The Golden Gophers recorded 26 shots, including 12 on target. Redshirt sophomore Caroline Birdsell scored Minnesota’s lone goal, her first of the season and third of her career, off an assist from junior Paige Kalal.
Redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Sarah Martin tallied a career game-high nine saves.
In the 30th minute, BYU’s Avery Frischknecht was issued a red card for denying a scoring opportunity to Birdsell, forcing the Cougars to play with 10 on the field.
Three minutes later, Kalal forced a BYU turnover and sprinted down the right sideline. After reaching the end line, she sent a cross to Birdsell, who converted to give Minnesota a 1-0 lead.
BYU’s Mia Lopez tied the match in the 54th minute with an unassisted goal.
In the 75th minute, Mia Goettsche netted the go-ahead goal for the Cougars to put them up 2-1.
With five minutes remaining, Mika Krommenhoek assisted Sophie Sivulich for BYU’s third goal, securing the 3-1 win.
Minnesota returns home this Sunday to face St. Thomas at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium. Kick off is set for 7 p.m. CT
(info and photo courtesy of Gopher Sports)
