New Wilmington, Pennsylvania – The Oberlin College women's soccer team opened its season on the road against Westminster, battling the Titans to a scoreless draw. Despite several strong scoring opportunities, including two shots off the crossbar, the Crimson and Gold were unable to break through in the 0-0 contest.
"I'm really pleased with how we performed. We were dynamic in the attack and created several quality chances throughout the match," said Head Coach Taylor Houck. "Defensively, we started two first-years at center back alongside Emma Molde, who returned after missing all of last season with an injury, and Emma Boyles at right back. For that group to keep a clean sheet in our season opener is something we can be very proud of."
"Of course, we're disappointed that we didn't come away with the win, especially with how close we came to scoring, but there were a lot of positives to build on," Houck concluded.
Oberlin applied pressure early, recording six shots in the opening half. Samantha Dormer nearly put the Crimson and Gold ahead in the 13th minute, but her shot struck the crossbar. Molly Button followed with an attempt on goal in the 20th minute, but the Titans' defense made the stop to keep the match scoreless.
Oberlin continued to attack after halftime. Averi Williams put three shots on goal in less than two minutes, but Westminster goalkeeper turned away each attempt. Dormer and Emma Boyles also forced saves as Oberlin searched for the opening goal.
In the 75th minute, Williams nearly broke the scoreless tie, lifting a shot over the goalkeeper that struck the crossbar. Oberlin created another late opportunity in the 88th minute, but Westminster stopped Boyles' attempt to preserve the scoreless draw.
Asha Locke made two saves during the opening half before Roam Redington took over in goal after halftime. Redington added two saves as the pair combined for the shutout.
Oberlin controlled the offensive pace, finishing with a 16-12 advantage in shots and an 8-4 edge in shots on goal. The Crimson and Gold also earned seven corner kicks to Westminster's two.
The Crimson and Gold return to action on Saturday, September 5, hosting Calvin at noon in their home opener.
Keep up with the Crimson and Gold on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and watch every home game on the Oberlin Sports Network online or on Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV.
