CLAREMORE, Okla. — Central Oklahoma (7-4-5, 5-2-3) edged Rogers State women's soccer (2-6-6, 2-4-3) with a single second-half goal to secure a 1-0 victory on Senior Day Saturday at Soldier Field.
Prior to the match, the Hillcats honor seniors
Amber Arnold,
Courtney Castleberry,
Brooke Hartshorn,
Emily Hartshorn,
Keiana Jones,
Delana King,
Kenzie Macklin,
Jaynie Rust and
Hannah Schulze. This group has exemplified the true meaning of being a Hillcat, both on the pitch and in the classroom.
The match began with Rogers State's defense being tested early, as goalkeeper
Calais Butts made crucial saves against shots by Central Oklahoma's Rebekah George and Caleah Carter within the first eight minutes. RSU's Macklin attempted to capitalize on a chance in the eighth minute, but her shot went wide. Despite the Bronchos' frequent attempts, Butts remained solid, making several saves to keep the game level.
King had a key opportunity in the 14th minute, but her shot was saved by Central Oklahoma's Avery Bass. Later in the period,
Khari Carreno's attempt also went off target. The defensive efforts from both teams resulted in a scoreless first half, with the Hillcats maintaining a strong defensive stand to close the period at 0-0.
The second period began with Butts making several key saves to keep the match scoreless. Despite the defensive efforts, Central Oklahoma broke through in the 70th minute with a goal by Rebekah George, taking a 1-0 lead.
Rogers State attempted to respond, with Macklin and
Taylor Colmo both testing the opposing goalkeeper, but their shots were saved. The period closed with the Cats' unable to find an equalizer, leaving the Bronchos to maintain their 1-0 advantage at the final whistle.
Butts made nine saves in the match, with five coming in the first period and four in the second. Macklin led the team with two shots, one of which was on goal. King and
Te Waiariki Read each had one shot that was on target, contributing to the offensive effort.
George stood out for the Bronchos with a goal and four shots, three of which were on target. She also netted the game-winning goal, marking a crucial contribution. Caleah Carter was active upfront, leading the team with five shots, three of them on goal. Bass secured a shutout with three saves, facing seven shots in total.
RSU women's soccer will hit the road for its final matches of the regular season, beginning with a test against the Lopers on Friday at 2 p.m. in Kearney, Nebraska.