HOBBS, N.M. (Oct. 3, 2024) – A stellar performance from Leah Tapia, who scored two crucial goals, gave the Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) women's soccer team the victory over the University of the Southwest (USW). The 2-1 win moves the Saints to 4-3-1 overall and 3-2 in conference, while the Mustangs drop to 3-4-1 and 1-4 in conference.

Assistant Coach Jaylin Seto commented, "At the start of the game, we came out with unmatched intensity to quickly put two in the back of the net. We focused on our strengths and implemented our SAINTS mentality to continue to battle with USW. We lost some intensity in the second half, but I'm still proud that our players continued to press despite the heat and aches and pains. Southwest continued to fight, and I commend their work ethic to keep pushing. I look forward to seeing our team capitalize on more chances and continue to be a nuisance to other teams' backline."

History

The Saints have a strong history of dominance over the Mustangs, with a record of 21-3. In 2023, the Saints emerged victorious with the same scoreline, 2-1, as they did this year.

Game recap

Leah Tapia demonstrated her resilience and skill early in the game, scoring in the third minute despite the Saints being called offsides. She then further solidified the team's lead with another goal on a pass from Allison Kostoch.

With less than five minutes remaining in the first half, USW's Anita Nicole shot one in on an assist from Rozlynn Ramsey.

The Saints took a whopping 10 shots, seven on goal, in the first half but were relegated to just one shot on goal in the second half.

The Mustangs took one less shot in the first half with nine but had three in the final period.

One caution was shown to OLLU's Sara Garza in the first half and one to Anisia Serrano in the second period.

OLLU keeper Samantha Valadez had five saves for the Saints, while USW's Kristina Simpson saved six.

What's next

The Saints will travel back to Texas for a game on Saturday against Paul Quinn College.