Huskers Secure Nail-Biting Victory Over Wildcats in Evanston

Evanston, Ill. – In a suspenseful battle on Sunday afternoon, the Nebraska soccer team clinched a critical 3-2 victory over Northwestern, thanks to the combined efforts of Eleanor Dale and Sarah Weber.

Boosting their season to a solid 8-2-3 (2-1-2 Big Ten), the Huskers have showcased their form and determination, while Northwestern’s record dipped to 7-3-3 (1-3-1 Big Ten) after the encounter.

Right from the whistle, Nebraska made their intentions clear. The remarkable Eleanor Dale ignited the scoreboard with her NCAA-leading 16th goal of the season, nodding home from a perfect Sarah Weber header that was set up by Lauryn Anglim’s impeccable free kick. The Huskers’ assault on the Wildcat’s net didn’t stop there. In a quick turnaround, only 62 seconds later, Briley Hill, the sophomore defender, scored her debut career goal, with a crafty assist by Gwen Lane. Demonstrating finesse and skill, Hill wove through the Wildcat defense, managing to find the back of the net. By halftime, the Huskers had firmly established their dominance with a 2-0 lead.

However, Northwestern emerged from the break with renewed vigor. Emma Phillips of the Wildcats managed to pull one back in the 71st minute. Their newfound momentum did not stop there, as Phillips found the net again in the 84th minute following a precise corner kick assist from Meg Boade. The Wildcats seemed to be back in contention, evening the score at 2-2.

But Nebraska had other plans. Almost immediately, Dale was once again at the epicenter of the action. Capitalizing on a lapse in the Wildcat defense, she received a pinpoint cross from Weber and effortlessly found the back of the net, recording her 17th goal and sixth game-winning shot of the season.

From that point onwards, Nebraska held their ground, ensuring the Wildcats remained scoreless for the match’s remainder. Senior goalie Sami Hauk showcased her mettle throughout the game, registering eight crucial saves, contributing to her season total of 48. The backline, bolstered by defenders like Lauryn Anglim and Nicola Hauk and supported by midfielder Haley Peterson and forward Eleanor Dale, showcased a solid 90-minute performance. Notably, senior Gwen Lane marked her first start of the season and made a pivotal team save in the 84th minute.

The Huskers now gear up to face Iowa at home on Saturday, Oct. 7, in what promises to be an emotional Senior Day. The action kicks off at 1:05 p.m. (CT) and fans can catch every moment streamed on Big Ten Plus.

With this blend of talent, grit, and determination, Husker fans can look forward to many more exhilarating performances as the season progresses.