WOMEN’S SOCCER

While #2 Spring Arbor played spoiler to Homecoming, the HU women’s soccer team didn’t back down from last year’s national champions Saturday afternoon at King Stadium. After giving up a goal in the opening three minutes of play off a broken play in the box, the Foresters held the national powerhouse scoreless the rest of the way for a 1-0 decision by the final horn.

SAU has dominated their competition so far this fall to the tune of eight shutouts and an 11-0 record, with Huntington proving the only team to play within a goal of the Cougars. Prior to today’s outing, Spring Arbor had won by at least three goals with the largest margin of victory, a 10-0 decision, against Lindsey Wilson last month.

Despite the guests outshooting HU 16-1 and enjoying a 12-0 tilt in corner kicks, Coach Lewis’ gritty crew held SAU in check for all but their goal at the 2:43 mark. While Huntington’s commitment to defense was a team effort, no one watching the game could deny the impact of HU keeper Ireland Aerni who made several sensational saves to keep the hosts in upset-contention. She finished with eight saves.

With this loss, Huntington moves to 6-5-1 overall which includes a 2-2 record in CL action. The Foresters head to Taylor on Wednesday for a 4:00 p.m. match with the Trojans.