GOSHEN, Ind. - Women's soccer hold on to their no-loss streak as a late goal brings them to a 1-1 tie with the RedHawks of Indiana University Northwest.
The start of the match was very even, with both teams trading opportunities and possession — though the Maple Leafs had a few very dangerous attacks early on. Then, in the 14th minute, Mari Williams took a gamble for the RedHawks and sent in a long ball from outside the top of the box. Her gamble paid off as it just cleared Hailey Ballast's outstretched hand and put the Leafs on the back foot.
This was Ballast's only error of the day — she picked up 8 saves in the rest of the contest.
The game continued to get more and more physical, with GC eventually picking up 12 fouls and IU Northwest nine. The Leafs also received three yellow cards to the one for the RedHawks.
As time continued to run out, it seemed more and more likely that despite a strong push in the second half, the Leafs would just not be able to close the door on the RedHawks. However, in the 86th minute, GC was awarded a penalty kick just inside their attacking third.
Natalie Boulier stepped up to take the kick, and with a beautifully placed ball that swung right up the six-yard line, Eliana Lang was able to run it into the back of the net — making the smart decision to simply put the ball to bed rather than trying to find a more glamorous shot. This was Boulier's first career assist.
With such a strong finish, the Leafs managed to secure the tie and set themselves up with a motivation boost as they get close to the end of non-conference play.
Johannah McDonald, who is now joined by Lang as a multi-goal scorer this year, picked up a career high 3 shots to match what Lang had there as well.
The Maple Leafs are back in action for a stint of road games, beginning on Wednesday, Sep. 16 at 4:30 p.m. to take on the Hornets of Kalamazoo. The next time they have a home match, Crossroads League action will have begun.
