North American University Secures Commanding Win in Sizzling Soccer Clash
By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
August 17, 2024 - Missouri City, Texas
Under the blazing South Texas sun, the Lady Stallions of North American University took the pitch against Arlington Baptist University in a much-anticipated NAIA vs. NCAAJC soccer showdown. Last season, the Lady Stallions dominated the Patriots, who were in a rebuilding phase. This year, Arlington Baptist arrived in Missouri City with a renewed sense of determination, ready to compete.
Coach Jeff Cross remarked before the game, "This matchup is a big test for us and an even bigger learning experience. Yes, this game is friendly, but it's slowly becoming a preseason rivalry." With that intensity brewing, the crowd turnout was remarkable, with both schools making the journey to Mo City. A special shoutout goes to the NAU Stallion Football team for not only showing up but leading the cheers, working the concession stands, and bringing that signature NAU Drip. Way to represent!
A nod also goes to NAUnited, one of NAU's premier clubs known for hosting some of the best futsal and 7-on-7 soccer tournaments on campus. Their presence added to the electric atmosphere.
On the Pitch:
From the first whistle, the Lady Stallions set the tone with their signature two-touch possession style, showcasing a Texas soccer brand that left Arlington Baptist scrambling. The Patriots' midfield struggled to keep up, as confusion about marking assignments became evident. With Arlington Baptist expecting an overload on one side, Ashley Dodd and Genevieve Colon began to exploit the back line, thanks to a series of under- and overlapping touchline passes.
It was a thing of beauty to witness, and it didn't take long for the Lady Stallions to capitalize. With all eyes on the left side of the pitch, Hannah Kim made a quick backspin into open space, receiving a swift pass from Suzette Baltazar. The result? A goal at the 54-second mark, marked by a roar of "Goalllllllllllllllllll Lasso!" from the crowd. But the Lady Stallions didn't pause to celebrate; they simply got back to work, knowing the possibilities that come with cohesive ball movement.
As Arlington Baptist became more aggressive, they left themselves vulnerable. At the 15:14 mark, Maria Alejandra Acosta intercepted the ball near midfield and delivered a bullet pass to Ashley Dodd, who, after just two touches, found Hannah Kim at the top of the box. Kim slotted her second goal of the match, further igniting the Lady Stallions' fire.
By the 20:51 mark, the heat on the pitch wasn't just from the weather. Hannah Kim, playing with flair, executed a look-away pass to Ashley Dodd, who buried the ball in the corner for her second goal of the season.
At halftime, Coach Smith and his staff emphasized the importance of maintaining their two-touch possession game. The Lady Stallions took the advice to heart, dominating the second half. At the 68:27 mark, Ashley Dodd sent a perfect pass to Maria Alejandra Acosta, who volleyed the ball into the upper ninety, capping off a stellar performance by the Lady Stallions.
For those who missed the live action, the game replay is available on the TSBN Network. Click the link to relive the excitement: Arlington Baptist vs. North American Women's Soccer.
The Stats:
Cautions and Ejections: No penalties were issued during the match.
Stadium: Ronald Thornton
Game Length: 1:59
Attendance: 81
Officials: Referee: Roque Castilla; Asst. Referees: Maria Gutierres, Mazen Abdulaziz
Scorer: Rev. Justin C. Jackson
Upcoming Match:
Attention NAU Faculty and Staff! Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 24, 2024, as our Lady Stallions take on the legendary HBCU Wiley University in what promises to be an epic soccer battle. After the Faculty and Staff Picnic, grab your hamburgers and hot dogs and head over to the game at 1909 Waters Lake Blvd, Missouri City, TX 77459.
Support your students in the game we all love. So you say you're a fútbol or soccer fan? Then prove it! Get those hooves up and GOOOOOOOOOOOO Stallions!
