By Alexis Corona – Spear Reporter | Junior midfielder Tatiana Cunningham dribbling the ball in a matchup against Nevada on Oct. 10 (photo by Alexis Corona – Spear Reporter)
Conceding two goals within the first 30 minutes of the first half would dictate the outcome of the Spartans’ (0-9-4) loss against Nevada (4-10).
“The first half was awful for us,” San Jose State head coach Tina Estrada said. “That was a rude awakening for our team on our home field.”
Although the Spartans had 48% of possession throughout the first half, they were outshot 11 to four by the Wolf Pack.
Senior midfielder Penny Murphy would open the score for the Wolf Pack in the 24th minute.
Nevada would come right back storming with a goal by senior forward Emily Rich six minutes later.
SJSU’s best chances at a goal would come in the second half with 12 shots, including two that hit the post.
“I think at the start of the second half, we came out hot with a lot more chances,” said sophomore defender Kyah Coady. “I do think that we were on it.”
Senior forward Kennedy Mayo led the Spartans with a season-high six shots, two coming on target.
The Spartans stopped the Wolf Pack from scoring in the second half despite allowing 13 more shots.
“Unfortunately, we’ve been unlucky in some situations, but I still believe in us, and I think we just need to put away some of our chances,” said Coady.
“We gotta turn it around,” said Estrada. “A little bit more risking, probably a change of plan for me for Sunday’s game.”
The Spartans will look to earn their first win of the season against the UNLV Rebels scheduled for 11 a.m. Sunday at the Spartan Soccer Complex.
