McPherson College defeated Sterling College 4-0 on Wednesday, Sept. 24 at Sterling, Kan. The Bulldogs’ offense was on display, scoring twice in each half. Sterling’s goalkeeper recorded nine saves but could not stop McPherson’s 13 shots on goal.
The match between Sterling and McPherson College began with Sterling’s defensive efforts holding strong as Bella Duckworth made multiple saves, including stops on two early shots by Alyssa Hill. Despite Sterling’s efforts, McPherson took the lead in the 19th minute with Hill’s goal off an assist from Courtney Wickham
Sterling’s offensive attempts were countered by McPherson’s defense, as Francesca Vilca and Elysa Apen‘s shots were saved by Elizabeth Scheuerman. The Bulldogs extended their lead to 2-0 in the 31st minute when Taylor Duvall scored with an assist from Shelby Pronk. Sterling continued to seek opportunities but were unsuccessful, closing the first half with a score of 2-0 in favor of McPherson College.
The second half began with Sterling aiming to close the gap against the Bulldogs. Shayna Dale initiated an early attack with a shot on target, but it was saved by McPherson’s goalkeeper, Scheuerman. McPherson then found the back of the net in the 56th minute, extending their lead with a goal by Hill once again assisted by Wickham.
Sterling continued to press forward, with Jessica Gautreau and Cheyenne Siler both testing the McPherson goalkeeper, but Scheuerman held firm. Despite several attempts, including a shot by Vilca in the 68th minute, Sterling was unable to convert. McPherson capitalized on a corner kick opportunity, with Gracie Speltz scoring to make it 4-0.
Sterling’s defense, led by Duckworth in goal, made several crucial saves to prevent further scoring. Despite a determined effort to alter the scoreline, the game concluded with Sterling trailing 4-0.
Duckworth, in goal, recorded nine saves for Sterling, facing 13 shots in total. Vilca generated offensive pressure with three shots, all on target. Apen contributed to the attack with two shots, both on goal. Gautreau and Dale each added a shot on goal to their efforts.
The Warriors dropped to 2-6 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Sterling’s next match up will be Saturday, Sept. 27 at 5:30 p.m. as they take on Southwestern College in Winfield, Kan.
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors’ live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
