September 21, 2024 | Hobbs, NM

In a fierce afternoon showdown, the NAU Stallions faced off against Southwest University in Hobbs, NM, and despite a valiant effort, fell 4-1 in a hard-fought contest.

First Half: Early Promise, Late Pressure

The Stallions started strong with an early goal from star forward Genevieve Colon at the 12:31 mark. Colon weaved through defenders to give NAU the lead and a surge of momentum. However, Southwest responded quickly with Maya Sanchez scoring just three minutes later, leveling the game at 1-1.

Southwest applied heavy pressure late in the first half, with Rylee Thatcher netting the go-ahead goal at 41:26, assisted by Rozlynn Ramsey. With only minutes left before halftime, Maya Sanchez struck again at 43:17, sending NAU into the break down 3-1.

Second Half: Battling Back, but Southwest Stands Tall

The Stallions came out determined in the second half, but Jadyn Duran widened Southwest's lead early, scoring at 49:54 off a crisp assist from Maya Sanchez. Down 4-1, NAU continued to press forward but was unable to penetrate Southwest's defense.

Goalkeeper Ava Wilson had a standout performance despite the final scoreline, recording 8 saves against an onslaught of 21 shots from Southwest. She faced relentless pressure but stood tall, making pivotal saves throughout the match.

Southwest's Kristina Simpson and Elena Moya split time in goal, with Simpson recording 1 save and Moya adding another, allowing only one goal from the Stallions' nine total shots.

Key Stats:

• Shots: NAU 9, Southwest 21
• Shots on Goal: NAU 3, Southwest 12
• Saves: NAU 8, Southwest 2
• Corner Kicks: NAU 8, Southwest 3
• Fouls: NAU 6, Southwest 5

Player Spotlight:

• Genevieve Colon shone for NAU with 3 shots, 2 on target, and the lone goal for the Stallions.
• Southwest's Maya Sanchez led the charge with 2 goals and 1 assist, playing a pivotal role in the victory.
• Ava Wilson showed immense resilience in goal for NAU, racking up 8 saves against a relentless attack.

Despite their efforts, the Stallions couldn't crack Southwest's tight defense and fierce attack. The match saw Hannah Davila of Southwest issued a yellow card at 79:21, but it didn't disrupt their control over the game.

Looking Ahead

The NAU Stallions will regroup and look to bounce back in their next match as they continue to strive for excellence on the pitch. The resilience shown by players like Genevieve Colon and Ava Wilson serves as a foundation for the team's growth moving forward.

Stay tuned, Stallion Nation—this team has heart, and they'll be back stronger!   You Know what to do GET THOSE HOOVES UP!!!!!! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO STALLIONSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!