By: Joey Daniels (@GBJoeyD)
GREEN BAY, Wis. (GreenBayPhoenix.com) – For the first time in program history the Green Bay women's soccer team has picked up a win or draw against a nationally-ranked opponent, following its 1-1 tie against DePaul on Thursday evening at Santaga Stadium.
A program that dates back to 1987 earned its first positive result against a ranked team. Green Bay (4-2-1) produced a convincing draw after falling behind 1-0 on a Blue Demons goal in the 18th minute, when freshman Alex Zeller (Dundee, Ill.) scored her third goal of the season in the 36th minute.
Zeller has seemingly been in the right place at the right time throughout her first seven games in Green Bay, this time scoring on a deflection after a Phoenix corner kick. Abby Juzwik (Madison, Wis.) played the corner kick into the box and to the head of Sydney Born (Edina, Minn.), who directed at the goal before it was blocked back to the foot of Zeller who buried it.
“I couldn't be more proud of the professional game our team put together today. DePaul is extremely dangerous, well organized and an NCAA tournament caliber team that provided a huge challenge for us. They have been where we strive to be and a lot was learned tonight to prepare us moving forward,” head coach Kacey Burke said.
Both teams had quality scoring opportunities littered throughout the second half, including a few good looks by Heidi Hartmann (Plymouth, Minn.) and Chandra Eigenberger (Green Bay, Wis.) late in the half. Carrying over into both of the overtime periods, the drama was high as both teams threatened to end the game during the final 20 minutes.
Goalkeeper Nastacia Behle (St. Paul, Mo.) finished with seven saves in the game, including a pair of highlight saves in the second half. Behle and her backline stood strong after allowing the initial goal of the game.
“It took a full team effort and great character to battle through a less than ideal start and early deficit. As the game progressed we began to settle in and possess as well as create multiple scoring opportunities throughout the game. This is a testament to the grit and determination of our squad this year,” Burke said.
A total of 16 corner kicks were taken in the game, with DePaul holding a 9-7 advantage.
Green Bay travels to the state of Illinois once again this weekend when the visit Eastern Illinois on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
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