University of Minnesota Athletics
Golden Gopher Soccer Defeats Wisconsin-Green Bay 1-0
10/10/2004 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
Junior Kaitlin Neary scored in the 80th minute as the Golden Gopher soccer team (5-8-0) defeated Wisconsin-Green Bay, 1-0, on Sunday afternoon. Along with its win on Friday at Wisconsin, Minnesota has won consecutive road games for the first time since Oct. 6-8, 2000.
The two teams played a scoreless first half with Minnesota holding a 9-5 advantage in shots. The Golden Gophers had the best scoring opportunity as Regina Moench's header in the 12th minute was stopped by a diving Brooke Wikgren.
With time winding down in the match, Moench sent a pass towards the UWGB goal. It deflected off the cross bar and Neary's bicycle kick from five yards out proved to be the game-winner. For Moench, it capped a four-point weekend as she assisted on both of Minnesota's game-winners.
"I saw the ball sail over my head, but didn't know I hit it until I was on my back," Neary said. "This was a big weekend for us. We've been so close this season. Hopefully we can build on this and finish the regular season strong.
Molly Schneider recorded her fourth shutout of the season as she made three saves in the contest. The Golden Gophers held a 16-9 advantage in shot attempts and an 8-2 edge in corner kicks.
"It was such a physical game," head coach Mikki Denney Wright said. "Wisconsin-Green Bay played us extremely tough. We had plenty of opportunities and our players didn't give up. I thought Regina (Moench) was outstanding all weekend. She has given us tremendous leadership all season."
After beginning the season with10 of their first 13 matches on the road, Minnesota will finish the regular season with four of its last five matches at home. The Golden Gophers face third-ranked Penn State and No. 19 Ohio State next weekend at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium.
