Northern Kentucky University Athletics

Box score

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Sarah Smith's first goal of the season gave the Northern Kentucky University women's soccer team a 2-1 victory over Youngstown State on Sunday afternoon at Stambaugh Stadium.

Kelsey Laumann put the Norse on the scoreboard first in the 12th minute.  Her shot less than a minute earlier went wide of the goal, but NKU kept the pressure on the Penguins' defense.  Kelsey Zwergel served the ball to Laumann, and she was able to put ball in the top corner of the net past Youngstown State goalie Ali Viola.

Shay Sade tied the game for the Penguins with a rebound shot after Jade Flory's attempt bounced off the post in the 24th minute.

The game remained tied until 72:25 when Smith took a pass from Maria Staab and was able to beat Viola.  Smith found the back of the net to put the Norse ahead and sealed the 2-1 victory.

“I thought we really competed and battled.  We were pleased with the team's efforts, and we were obviously very pleased with the outcome,” NKU head coach Bob Sheehan said.  “It was a complete team effort today.  Some of the players who didn't get the start gave a great effort off the bench, and they were key for us.  They came in and brought a lot of energy and were essential to our success.”

The Penguins finished with a 22-6 advantage in shot attempts, but the NKU defense did not fold to the pressure.  Goalie Stephanie Glass, earning her first start of the season, stood strong in net for the Norse.   She collected eight saves on the day.

“Stephanie was able to handle the high balls and organized her defense well,” Sheehan said.  “She played very well overall today.”

NKU improved to 3-5 on the season with the win, while Youngstown State dropped to 4-3.

The Norse return home to open Atlantic Sun Conference play on Friday with a match against Jacksonville at 7 p.m.  NKU will then host North Florida on Sunday at noon.