CU Buffs' soccer loses opener

Starting off tournaments with a loss is never a good sign.

For the Colorado women’s soccer team, it’s starting to get a bit habitual.

The Buffs lost 2-0 against host Gonzaga in their opening game of the Gonzaga University Tournament on Friday in Spokane, Wash., dropping the Buff’s record to 2-3 on the season, after a 2-0 start.

Despite both teams attempting six shots each, with two on goal, the first half was scoreless.

Two minutes into the second half, Gonzaga opened the scoring. Senior Sheridan Jones’ pass found freshman Emily Eckmann, who shot from 25 yards out, and the ball found its way into the back of the net.

In the 57th minute, Colorado head coach Bill Hempen made a shock substitution, swapping starting freshman keeper Annie Brunner for sophomore Kayla Millar, marking the first time Millar has took the field this season.

Gonzaga doubled their lead in the 61st minute. With her second assist, Jones found senior Ashley Riley at the top of the box. Riley’s shot found its way past Millar, and securing the Zags win.

The Buffs out-shot Gonzaga 13-10, but failed to find a way to get the ball past redshirt junior goalkeeper Lauren Ames.

The Buffs will now look to turn their losing streak around Sunday, when they will take on Washington State in the second game of the tournament at 11 a.m.

Contact CU Independent Soccer Reporter Mark McNeillie at [email protected]