Huskers Open Big Ten Conference Play with a Stalemate against Badgers

A Night for the Record Books

On a crisp Friday evening, the Husker nation converged on Barbara Hibner Stadium, creating the second-highest attendance in its history with 1,771 fans in the stands. The occasion? The Nebraska soccer team opened its Big Ten conference play with a high-stakes match against the Wisconsin Badgers.

The match ended in a 1-1 tie, pushing Nebraska’s season record to 6-1-2 and its Big Ten record to 0-0-1. The Badgers now stand at 5-1-3, also 0-0-1 in the Big Ten.

Dale Shines Yet Again

Senior Eleanor Dale, who currently leads the nation in goals scored with 13, was the star for the Huskers. In the 13th minute of the game, defender Jordan Zade served up a precision cross into the 18-yard box. Dale, ever the opportunist, made no mistake and sent the ball sailing past Wisconsin’s goalie for Nebraska’s lone goal. This brilliant assist became Zade’s fifth of the season.

Dominating the First Half

The Huskers held a commanding presence in the initial 45 minutes. Outshooting the Badgers 7-4 and taking a decisive lead in corners (5-0), Nebraska appeared to have the game in hand. Goalkeeper Sami Hauk, who played the full 90 minutes, contributed three saves in this period, increasing her seasonal total to an impressive 34.

The Late Drama

However, as often happens in soccer, the game isn’t over until the final whistle blows. Wisconsin’s Aryssa Mahrt netted the equalizer in the 88th minute off an assist from Maia Richters, bringing the score level.

Though the Badgers led the overall shot count with 11 to Nebraska’s 8, the Huskers still held the advantage in shots on goal (5-4). Corners were evenly matched at six apiece.

Consistent Contributors

Senior Sami Hauk was in goal for the full game, marking her presence with critical saves. Nicola Hauk and Lauryn Anglim, both defenders, also played the complete match, adding strength to the Husker backline.

What’s Next?

The Huskers are now looking forward to continuing their Big Ten campaign. Up next on the road is Ohio State on Thursday, Sept. 21, followed by a clash against Penn State on Sunday, Sept. 24. Thursday’s game will be aired on BTN, while the Friday game will be available on Big Ten Plus.

For more on Husker soccer and other sports, stay tuned to HuskerToday.com.