URGENT UPDATE: Upper Iowa women’s soccer team faced a disappointing loss against Drury (Mo.) on Sunday, falling 2-0 in a match dominated by the Panthers. The Peacocks struggled to find momentum throughout the game, managing only two shots while Drury unleashed a staggering 19 shots.
The Panthers took control early, with a standout performance from Holland Hawkins, who netted the first goal in the 67th minute thanks to an assist from Kadence Kermpges. Drury sealed their victory with another goal from Grace Pohl in the 85th minute. Freshman goalkeeper Avery Harding made her mark with 10 saves, including a remarkable six in the first half that kept the scoreline competitive.
The Peacocks found minimal offensive opportunities, with Jessica Ancheta recording Upper Iowa’s only shot on goal. Freshman Rhea Buchanan also made her mark with a first-half attempt, but the team could not convert on their chances. Despite playing the entire match, key players, including Buchanan, Stephany Castillo, Natalie Lima, and Meghan Zwicker, could not break through Drury’s defense.
The disparity in corner kicks highlighted the dominance of the Panthers, who had 10 corner kicks to Upper Iowa’s lone attempt, which came in the second half. The physicality of the match saw Drury committing 10 fouls while Upper Iowa recorded seven fouls.
This defeat drops the Peacocks to a record of 3-7-2 overall and 1-6-1 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC), raising pressing questions about their path forward.
Upper Iowa has a chance to bounce back as they prepare to face Missouri S&T at home on Friday, October 17, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. The Peacocks will then take on Lincoln (Mo.) on Sunday, October 19, 2023, at 12 p.m. Fans will be eager to see if the team can regain their footing and capitalize on their home advantage in the upcoming matches.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Peacocks look to turn their season around.
