Reivers earn second conference victory

Council Bluffs, IA –Iowa Western faced Iowa Lakes Friday afternoon. The Reivers won their second conference game 2-0, earning their first shut out.

HOW IT HAPPENED: Ready to try and create a winning streak, the Reivers quickly stole possession of the ball and worked their way up the field. Seven minutes into the game, defender Kate Reddish sent the ball up to midfielder Abby Hall. Hall dribbled in from the side with speed and sent a rocket past the Lakers goalkeeper. Iowa Western continued to possess the ball and create several scoring opportunities for the remainder of the half. The Reiver defensive line made up of Reddish, Alex Allgaier, Veronica Herrera, and Sofia Culvin destroyed all of Iowa Lakes chances on goal.

After the halftime break, Iowa Western entered the field electrified. The team began to move the ball quicker and sharper, playing around the already worn-down Lakers. Proof of the faster play, Hall received a chip in the first minute of the half from Laura Chavez. Hall dribbled down the end line, cutting inside to earn her second goal for the season. The Reivers continued to set the pace of the game, initiating four corners and fourteen shots in the second half. The Lakers did not give up, eventually skimming past the Iowa Western defense for a 1v1. Goalkeeper Mandy Clark stepped up, closing down the space between her and her opponent. With little room to shoot, the ball hit straight into Clark, deflecting away from the goal to be cleared by defense. Iowa Lakes received a few set pieces, but all were picked off by the defensive line or Clark. The Reivers finished the game with their second win of the season.

NOTES & NUMBERS: Abby Hall scored the first goal with an assist from Kate Reddish at 7:00. Once more, Hall scored the second goal with an assist from Laura Chavez at 46:00. The Reivers finished the game with a total of 28 shots and 9 corner kicks.

QUOTES: Freshman Midfielder Abby Hall of Lehi, Utah

"I think that we worked really well together compared to our last games. I think that we're finally clicking," Hall said. "Coach Sanchez changed the formation for the match and everyone looks more comfortable in their positions."

UP NEXT: The Reivers go up against non-conference opponent Otero at home on Sunday, September 17 at 11:00AM CST. Iowa Western also faces Indian Hills at 4:00PM CST on Wednesday, September 20 in a conference match in Ottumwa, Iowa. Match updates can be found on Twitter at @ReiverWSoccer.