SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – The No. 19 Spring Arbor University women's soccer team continued its perfect start to the season with a 1-0 victory over Saint Xavier University on Wednesday night at the Cougar Soccer Complex.
Spring Arbor improved to 4-0-0 with its fourth consecutive shutout to begin the season, while Saint Xavier dropped to 1-3-0.
The Cougars wasted little time creating chances, hitting the post just 33 seconds into the match before
Claire VanZanten forced a save less than a minute later. SAU eventually broke through in the 12th minute when
Ella Peck set up VanZanten for the game's only goal. The tally was VanZanten's team-leading third of the season.
Spring Arbor continued to apply pressure throughout the opening half, but Saint Xavier goalkeeper Natalie Dybas kept the visitors within one. Dybas made seven first-half saves as the Cougars carried the 1-0 advantage into the break.
The pressure continued in the second half. SAU generated 22 more shots over the final 45 minutes and put 12 of those attempts on goal, but Dybas turned away each one to keep the margin at a single goal.
Despite being unable to add to its lead, SAU ensured VanZanten's goal would be enough. The Cougars allowed just one shot all night and did not surrender a shot on goal.
Kailey Walcott and
Mia Warner each played 45 minutes in goal as SAU recorded another clean sheet.
Spring Arbor finished with a 40-1 advantage in shots, including a 20-0 edge in shots on goal, and held a 12-0 advantage in corner kicks.
The Cougars remain at home Saturday, Sept. 5 when they host Cornerstone University at the Cougar Soccer Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m.
