News Summary
The Idaho State women’s soccer team achieved a significant 2-0 win against UNLV, marking their first victory over the Running Rebels since 2000. This victory also highlights the Bengals’ first win against a Mountain West Conference opponent in 2023. Co-captains Mary Za and Saydree Cooke scored the goals, while goalkeeper Hannah Wieler earned her second shutout of the season. The win boosts Idaho State’s morale as they head into Big Sky Conference play, with hopes for continued success.
Las Vegas, NV – The Idaho State women’s soccer team secured a historic 2-0 victory over UNLV, marking their first win against the Running Rebels since 2000. This victory is particularly significant, as it is also the Bengals’ first victory over a Mountain West Conference opponent since a 3-0 win against Wyoming earlier in 2023. The win comes as a much-needed boost for the team as they prepare to head into conference play.
Co-captains Mary Za and Saydree Cooke were instrumental in the victory, each scoring a goal for the Bengals. Freshman goalkeeper Hannah Wieler also shone in the match, recording her second shutout of the season. Throughout the game, Idaho State displayed a strong performance, outshooting UNLV 7-5 in the first half, with four shots on target.
Za opened the scoring at the 19:17 mark, assisted by Cooke, marking her third goal of the season. Cooke then added a second goal early in the second half, with an assist from forward Stephanie Roper, further extending Idaho State’s lead.
Despite the loss, UNLV (2-6-1) outshot Idaho State overall, totaling 17 shots compared to the Bengals’ 13. They held a considerable advantage in the second half with a shot count of 12-6. However, Idaho State’s junior defender Daphne Egelhoff, along with a young Bengal defense and goalkeeper Wieler, helped maintain the shutout and secure the victory.
Egelhoff’s performance was particularly noteworthy as she played in front of family and friends in her home city of Henderson, Nevada. In addition, midfielder Isabella Winton made her return from injury, having missed the last five games, contributing to the team’s overall depth.
In terms of individual performance, both Mary Za and teammate Talia Coury now share the team lead in goals scored, with three each, placing them ninth among the Big Sky Conference scoring leaders. Saydree Cooke ranks fourth in the conference for total shots (23), sixth for shots on goal (11), and eighth in assists (3).
Idaho State concluded their nonconference schedule with a record of 3-4-2 and is set to begin competing in Big Sky play. Their conference opener is scheduled to take place at Davis Field against the University of Idaho on Thursday at 7 p.m. Coach Dustin Downey has expressed hopes for a strong turnout from fans for this matchup against the Vandals, who currently have a similar record of 3-3-4.
The importance of this win cannot be overstated for Idaho State as they look to build momentum heading into the Big Sky season. The players, coaching staff, and supporters are optimistic that this victory will translate into greater success in upcoming games.
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Additional Resources
- Idaho State Journal: Bengals Shut Out UNLV
- UNLV Rebels: Women’s Soccer: Rebels Come Up Short
- Big 12 Sports: Women’s Basketball Playoffs
- Wikipedia: Idaho State Bengals
- Google Search: Idaho State Football
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