FLAGSTAFF, ARIZ. – The Northern Arizona women's soccer team fell to the University of New Mexico 4-0 Sunday afternoon, Sept. 17, in their second loss of the weekend and fourth of the season. In their last non-conference weekend of the season, Head Coach Andre Luciano and the Lumberjacks found there is still much to be improved upon. The Lumberjacks are now moving into conference competition 5-4 overall with two power teams in Idaho and Eastern Washington on the schedule.
"We got beat by a very good New Mexico team," said Luciano. "They were dangerous in all areas of the game; set pieces, throw ins and counter attacks and we could not respond."
Much like Friday night, the Lumberjacks went down early in the game giving up two goals less than a minute a part. Northern Arizona struggled offensively recording just four shots, one on goal the entire game. New Mexico capitalized on their opportunity and kept possession, stretching the 'Jacks for the remaining 20 minutes in the first half.
Going into the second half, the Lumberjacks were down 2-0 and looking to get on the scoreboard. Unfortunately, the Lobos scored their third and fourth goals to solidify their fifth win of the season and fourth shutout.
Defensively, senior goalkeeper Meghan Dickmann and the NAU back line gave a great effort against a very aggressive Lobo offense, who took a total 26 shots. Dickmann recorded five saves, one of her highest this season, before being subbed out for sophomore goalkeeper Nikki Spoelman. Spoelman, her first look on the field this season, ended the game for the Lumberjacks giving up the Lobo's fourth goal and denying an attempt with an incredible save in the 76th minute.
"We now have to shift our attention to Idaho and Eastern Washington which are the regular season and tournament champions," Luciano said.
Big Sky action kicks off next weekend for Northern Arizona starting Friday, Sept. 22 against the reigning regular season champions the Idaho Vandals and continuing Sunday, Sept. 24 against the reigning conference champions the Eastern Washington Eagles. The Lumberjacks will be on the road for both, taking on the Vandals at 6 p.m. Friday and the Eagles Sunday at noon.
