The season came to an end for No. 17 Westmont Women’s Soccer as the Warriors lost 1-0 in overtime at 13th-ranked Northwood (Fla.) in the opening round of the NAIA National Soccer Championship.
“It was extremely disappointing to end the way that we have,” said Westmont head coach Kristi Kiely. “I don’t think it is a clear reflection of our season. These are the times when you need to be performing, bringing your energy and have that intensity and determination and we didn’t have that today.
The game remained scoreless throughout regulation then ended just a minute and one-half into the overtime period. The game winner came when Northwood’s Matilda Hjalte crossed a ball into the box that was headed in by Helen Lynskey. Northwood improves to 15-4-1.
“In the first half, we had a lot of momentum and a lot of chances and were dominating, but we weren’t able to score a goal,” said Kiely. “They made changes at halftime and played better than we did. They carried that momentum into overtime and happened to catch us in a transitional moment.”
Westmont goalkeeper Lindsey Smith tallied eight saves in the game.
“Lindsey and Kaitlynn Durham had a great game,” said Kiely. “Kaitlynn Durham had one job to do – defend against Lynskey – and she did a fantastic job.
“We had our chances. We hit off the post four times.”
With today’s loss, the Warriors (12-6-1) say goodbye to two seniors – Aolani Rueff and Ashley Correa – and begin making plans for next year.
