OSU Women’s Soccer Report: Weeks 6 & 7

With just over a month left, the Oregon State Women’s Soccer Team is still looking for their second win of the season. With conference play underway the schedule has become much more challenging. Here’s what’s happened since we last checked in.

The Beavers started off their conference schedule hosting #23 Colorado. The Beavers’ inability to take control on offense once again plagued them this game. Colorado gained control early, scoring a goal in the third minute. The Buffaloes followed that with goals in the eleventh and thirteenth minutes.

The Beavers tried to keep up, and managed 5 shots to the Buffs 9, but none made it past the goalkeeper. Down 0-3 at the half, the Beavers would have a lot of work to do to catch up. That didn’t happen. Colorado matched their first half, with goals in the 52nd, 69th, and 79th minutes. The Beavers managed 8 shots, but no score, for a 6-0 final.

The team was outshot 18-13, which is a better margin than they’ve managed in earlier losses, but they still have issues capitalizing on those opportunities. The Beavers are now 1-8 (0-1 in the PAC-12) while Colorado remains undefeated, at 9-0-1 (1-0 in the PAC-12).

The following Thursday, the women’s team took on Washington in Seattle. The Oregon State defense, particularly goalkeeper Bridgette Skiba, held the Huskies scoreless in the first half, despite Washington dominating the shot count 19-3.

Unfortunately, Washington slipped the ball past Skiba early in the second period, to take a 1-0 lead, which would become the final score. Oregon State unable to generate any offense in the second half, with only one shot.

Despite the loss, Skiba had an excellent game, with 11 saves, a personal best.

The following Sunday, September 30th, the Beavers traveled to Pullman to face Washington State. Unfortunately, the result was similar to what we’ve seen all season; the Beavers failed to generate offensive opportunities. Washington State managed 18 shots in the first half, with one finding the mark in the 20th minute to give the Cougars an early lead.

Bridgette Skiba once again had a stellar game, matching her 11 save total from the previous match. Unfortunately, she wouldn’t get a chance to break her record, as in the second half she was given a red card after taking down a Washington State player on a breakaway. The Beavers subbed in Emma Deane, but the Cougars scored on the resulting free kick. Washington State would win 2-0.

The Beavers have not scored since their September 9th game against Texas Tech.

They’ll get their next chance for a win Thursday, October 4th, when Cal comes to town. Cal has also struggled this season, so this presents a great opportunity for the Beavers. The game is at 7 PM, and tonight is the first ever Pups at the Park at Lorenz Field, so pets are welcome.