Under 100 degree heat, several soccer fans gathered in the shade on Sept. 3 to witness the women’s soccer team in an emotion-filled defensive first game against the Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Roadrunners, which ended in a scoreless draw. 

The first half was heavily dominated by the Hilltoppers, who kept most possession on their attacking field. Senior forward Ari Ramirez kept the energy high during the first 45 minutes, attempting a goal and keeping the Roadrunners focused on their defensive field. 

Senior defender Maddi Davis stopped MSU from switching the field, keeping possession at 22% on their attacking side. 

Coming back for the second half, the Roadrunners had the advantage of possession. This time, the Hilltoppers had to focus more on their defense, bending to protect their goal from the 11 shots MSU attempted. 

In her first collegiate game, goalkeeper Daria Schlumbohm played for the entire second half, showcasing talent and range. Schlumbohm stopped all three on-goal attempts made by the Roadrunners and redirected the other eight shots made in her direction. 

“I was a little bit nervous but it felt good, and I’m proud of the team,” Schlumbohm said. 

In a powerful run by Ramirez at the 88-minute mark, the battle for the ball ended in a penalty kick for the Hilltoppers. Midfielder graduate student Caitlyn Gonzalez sent the ball over the barrier, but it got redirected to the left corner of the field right before the final whistle blew. The game came to an end with a 0-0 score. 

“The most important thing is that you bend but you don’t break,” head coach Nick Cowell said. “These experiences are what allows you to come out to the next game with a little bit more confidence.”