JONESBORO, Ark. – The Little Rock soccer team held Arkansas State to just one goal on their rival's pitch this afternoon, falling 1-0 despite a tough defensive performance that visibly slowed down the Red Wolves' offense in the second half.
"Obviously we're disappointed to lose one-nil, but we're really encouraged by how well we matched up against the home team," said head coach
Mark Foster. "I thought we were excellent defensively all over the field. Overall, couldn't be happier with where we are already and what we're getting out of games in the spring."
Freshman goalkeeper
Saskia Wagner made seven saves on the afternoon, with five of those stops occurring in the first half, while the Little Rock defense also added a team save, effectively preventing Arkansas State's Sun Belt Player of the Year from scoring.
While the Red Wolves put up 11 shots in the first 45 minutes of play, scoring in the 31st after one attempt nearly 25 yards out made its way into the upper left hand corner of the net. However, the number of opportunities was cut to five in the second half thanks to strong ball movement from the Trojans.
"There were some really bright spots offensively and our ladies were stepping up everywhere and creating some chances," said Coach Foster. "The only that was missing today was that bit of bravery in the final third to convert some of our chances we created."
Freshman
Mariella Stephens had the most opportunities on the attack, adding three shots with one of those on goal, while junior
Abril Lucio also joined her with one shot on goal. With the graduation of a handful of seniors that played in the fall, several members of the team have had to step up in terms of minutes and positions, and the Trojans have adjusted to the changes well.
"We've had two good performances in seven days," added Coach Foster. "Playing against competitive opposition in the spring is a new challenge for us and it makes our training better and our games better."
Little Rock's next match will also feature an in-state opponent. The Trojans face the UAPB Lions in Pine Bluff on Tuesday, March 16.
For the latest information on Little Rock Soccer, make sure to check out
LRTrojans.com. You can also find the team on social media at @LittleRockSOC on
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