Story by Adam Redfern
Contributing writer
aredfern@murraystate.com
Murray State soccer continued its successful start with another home win 2-1 in extra time against Northern Kentucky University.
The Racers opened the game early with a goal from junior forward Miyah Watford off a well timed pass from freshman forward Abby Jones. Watford was a bright spot for Murray State despite being under the weather the past few days.
“Would you believe she’s been sick?” Head Coach Matt Lodge asked. “She didn’t train yesterday, she just kinda sat on the sideline and blew her nose for a couple of hours. Today I was unsure whether I should start her or not, but obviously I made the right choice. It doesn’t matter what day it is, or if she’s got a broken leg, she’s gonna give everything she’s got.”
Murray State controlled the ball for the rest of the first half only allowing NKU to take three shots.
Early in the second half NKU had a collision in Murray State’s box, which led to a well-struck penalty kick taken by their junior forward Shawna Zaken, which evened the game at 1-1.
The game adopted a more physical style in the second half with two yellow cards being given, one for Murray State senior defender Karsyn Hatch and one for NKU senior defender Taylor Spaulding.
The second half saw more shots from both teams, but neither side could find the back of the net. The teams couldn’t be separated on the scoreboard until early in extra time, when Watford was able to place a shot just out of reach of NKU’s keeper. The goal was Watford’s second of the game, and gave the Racers a 2-1 victory.
“It means a lot,” Watford said. “I honestly couldn’t do it without the team. They support me all the time, and they are always there for me.”
The Racers will look to continue their early success against IUPUI at 3 p.m. on Friday, August 24, at Cutchin Field.