The Basics

Score: Evangel 0, Southwestern Christian 0 | Box Score

Record: Evangel (0-0-1), Southwestern Christian (0-0-1)

Location: Springfield, Mo. (Coryell Field)

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Valor Women's Soccer opened their 2024 campaign on Friday (Aug. 23) evening at Coryell Field, looking to start the season on a high note against Southwestern Christian. The Valor battled and put forth a strong effort on Friday, but could not find a game winning goal, as both teams took a 0-0 draw after ninety minutes of play.

Southwestern opened the match with two strong attempts at goal, but Rylee Clapp was there to make saves on both attempts. Alece Hershey found a strong chance at the 11:47 mark of the game that required a tough save from the Eagles keeper. Both Anna Crain and Makayla Myers found opportunities in the latter part of the first half, but once again, the opposing goalie made strong saves to prevent goals. Clapp continued her strong play in goal, keeping the Eagles off the scoreboard as the Valor and Eagles took a tie into halftime.

After both teams made adjustments, the Eagles came out firing in the second half. Multiple shots were made by the visiting team, but strong defense and excellent teamwork and communication between Clapp and her back line helped keep the Eagles off the board. Entering the final minute of play, Evangel had their strongest push of offense. Alece Hershey was able to get the ball up the field and forced a corner with 13 seconds remaining in the game. After finding Collins on the corner, the Valor put up one final attempt at a cross that hit off a Southwestern Christian body, ultimately ending both teams chances at a game winner, as each team took a 0-0 draw on Friday evening.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Evangel was outshot, 15-6, in the 0-0 tie.

• Rylee Clapp finished the evening with nine saves in goal. 

• Alece Hershey led the team with a pair of shots, but five Valor athletes all recorded shots in the tie.

• This is Evangel's first draw to open the season in program history.

QUOTABLE

"There was some excellent soccer played this evening. It was exciting to start off the season with a positive result. Our back line played very strong and Rylee Clapp was phenomenal in goal in earning her first shutout of the year," Women's Soccer Head Coach Bruce Deaton stated. "I am very proud of our effort tonight and see amazing things ahead for this team!!"

For the latest information on Evangel Athletics, visit Facebook at Facebook.com/EvangelValor, Twitter (@EvangelValor), or EvangelAthletics.com. Fans can also receive updates on their favorite EU teams by downloading the Evangel Athletics Gameday App through the App Store or Google Play.