WHEATON, Ill. – The Carroll University women's soccer team generated a strong second-half push Wednesday night, but a late Wheaton goal proved to be the difference as the Pioneers fell 1-0 in CCIW action at Joe Bean Stadium. Carroll moves to 2-5-7 overall and 1-2-1 in conference play.
The two sides played an even opening 45 minutes, combining for just four shots as the match went into halftime scoreless. Carmella Nowak produced Carroll's best chances of the opening period, putting one shot on goal in the 17th minute before having another attempt blocked later in the half. Goalkeeper Payton Brose kept Wheaton off the board with a pair of first-half saves.
Carroll began to take control offensively after the break, outshooting Wheaton 9-4 in the second half. The Pioneers earned three corner kicks during the opening 17 minutes of the period, while Madison Milhaupt forced a save in the 58th minute.
The pressure continued into the final 25 minutes. Gabby Courtois put attempts on goal in the 69th and 76th minutes before Nowak forced another save moments later. Carroll then produced a flurry of chances in the 77th minute, with attempts from Courtois and Ellie Pierson blocked before Harlie Seuser sent a shot high.
Despite the Pioneers' pressure, Wheaton broke through in the 85th minute when Calah Strong scored an unassisted goal to give the Thunder a 1-0 lead. Carroll was unable to find an equalizer over the remaining minutes.
Carroll finished with an 11-6 advantage in total shots, including a 5-3 edge in shots on goal, and held a 5-3 advantage in corner kicks. Nowak and Courtois each recorded three shots and placed two on goal, while Brose finished with two saves.
The Pioneers return home Saturday for another CCIW matchup against Illinois Wesleyan at 1pm.
