University of Minnesota Athletics
Jackrabbits Stun Colorado
11/14/2008 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
Making its first-ever NCAA appearance in just its fifth season as a Division I program, the South Dakota State women's soccer team pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset of No. 15 Colorado in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium in St. Paul, Minn. Kellyn Farrell's early first-half goal was the match's lone score, giving SDSU the Summit League's first-ever NCAA victory.
“There have been talented teams [from the Summit League] in past NCAA tournaments, but they usually get matched up against the cream of the crop [in the first round] the Purdues, the Norte Dames,' said Jackrabbits head coach Lang Wedemeyer. “
Farrell's game-winning goal came early in the match. Just 13:29 into the game, the freshman put
“Erin [Kasmarik] just hit the ball forward, and the defender didn't have very a very good touch,' said Farrell about her go-ahead score, which was unassisted. “It just bounced [in my direction] and I used my speed to get past and push it past the goalie. It came naturally; I didn't even think about what I was doing. It was a great feeling.'
Despite the early deficit,
“I'm sure we hit every post in the first half,' said
SDSU effectively contained the
In fact, SDSU concentrated almost solely on defense in the second half, attempting just one shot on goal, that coming in the period's first four minutes.
“It's definitely exciting,' said Lograsso. “It shows that the league a force to be reckoned with and not underestimated. We've worked hard to get to this point, and it's nice to see the rewards of that.'
The Jackrabbits will now face the winner of Friday night's other first-round match between
“We want our players to enjoy every second of this opportunity,' said Wedemeyer. “It doesn't happen all the time.'
