Surprise, Ariz. – OUAZ men's soccer opened GSAC play Thursday night at Spirit Field, dropping a 2-0 decision to Embry-Riddle. The Spirit move to 1-4-1 overall and 0-1 in conference play.
Facing an early deficit, OUAZ continued to battle throughout the evening and showed its best stretch of play during the second half but was unable to find a breakthrough against the Eagles.
Embry-Riddle capitalized on a pair of first-half opportunities to build a two-goal advantage before the break. Despite the early setback, the Spirit defense regrouped and limited the Eagles' attack for much of the remainder of the contest.
Goalkeeper Jack Murdoch turned in another strong performance between the posts, recording four saves and keeping OUAZ within striking distance throughout the match. Murdoch came up with several key stops against an Eagles offense that generated multiple scoring chances.
The Spirit created several opportunities of their own, especially after halftime. Chase Saverino tested the Embry-Riddle goalkeeper early in the contest, while Mason Whisler added a shot on goal before the break. In the second half, Carlos Rodriguez helped lead the attack with multiple shot attempts as OUAZ searched for a way back into the match.
OUAZ controlled more possession in the attacking third during the final 45 minutes and earned three second-half corner kicks. The Spirit continued to pressure the Eagles defense late but were unable to convert on their chances as Embry-Riddle held on for the conference victory.
By the Numbers
- Jack Murdoch recorded four saves in goal.
- Carlos Rodriguez paced the Spirit attack with three shot attempts.
- Chase Saverino and Mason Whisler each registered a shot on goal.
- OUAZ earned three corner kicks in the second half.
- The Spirit showed improvement after halftime, holding Embry-Riddle scoreless over the final 45 minutes.
Up Next
OUAZ remains at home on Saturday, Sept. 12, for a GSAC rivalry matchup against Arizona Christian. Kickoff from Spirit Field is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. as the Spirit look to earn their first conference victory of the season.
