CUPERTINO, Calif. – Sophomore forward Maddi Cillay scored the winning goal in the 89th minute, and the Eastern Oregon University women's soccer team came from behind to beat Menlo College, 3-2. With the victory, EOU (3-0) has already matched its win total from last season.
"I'm proud of how our team battled back today," said head women's soccer coach Justin Wagar. "After taking an early lead, Menlo scored two unanswered and they have great defense."
The Storyline
After firing a pair of shots in the opening three minutes, the third one proved to be the charm, as senior forward Crystal Schuder sent one into the back of the net to give the Mountaineers an early 1-0 lead.
A transfer out of New Mexico Highlands, Schuder paced EOU's offense on the afternoon with four shots, one goal, and a pair of assists.
"Crystal Schuder played great today and was our player for the match contributing to all three goals," said Wagar.
Menlo fired back with goals in the 15th and 24th minutes to snag a 2-1 lead and carried the advantage into halftime.
EOU initiated itself as the aggressor in the second stanza, outshooting Menlo 6-1 in the frame. The Mountaineers also took three corner kicks compared to only one by the Oaks.
"Our defense stepped up the second half to lock them down," said Wagar.
Freshman forward Zoe Anderson continued the solid start to her young career, as the California native drove home the equalizer in the 63rd minute. However, the two teams went silent in what appeared to be a game headed for overtime.
But that's when Schuder and Cillay rose to the challenge. After racing past four Menlo defenders, Schuder drew Menlo keeper Kaylin Swart out and passed the ball over to Cillay who tapped in the game-winner.
"Kudos to our girls for staying confident, not giving up, and getting the result," said Wagar.
In goal, junior goalkeeper Jessica Parker collected one save and improved to 3-0 on the season.
Stat of the Game
1 – The Mountaineers allowed just one shot in the second half while taking six of their own.
Up Next
EOU returns to the pitch tomorrow to take on Mills College tomorrow in Oakland, Calif., at 3:30 p.m.
