FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (October 18, 2024) – NAU Soccer dropped a one-goal match to the Portland State Vikings at home on Friday night following a PSU goal four minutes into play.
The Vikings opened the match with a quick corner kick as Abi Hoffman took the kick, connecting with Aliayha Saldana who tapped the ball to Elle Frazier who found the back of the net for the early lead.
As the Jacks battled for the equalizer, NAU found back-to-back chances in the 29
th minute as
Haylee Phoenix looked for a goal off the header, earning the Jacks a corner kick.
Deniah Wells found her opportunity off the corner, just slightly off while hitting the crossbar to keep the PSU lead.
The Jacks put up eight first-half shots in comparison with PSU's four.
Trinity Corcoran grabbed one stop in the first half while NAU forced Portland State keeper Eden Millan to stop one as well. The Vikings took a 5-3 advantage on corner kick opportunities into the second half of play.
Northern Arizona began the second-half surge quickly, as the Viking defense would block three shots in the first ten minutes of play. One of the best looks the Jacks took would come in the 72
nd minute as
Haylee Phoenix neared her fourth of the season as Millan made the diving one-handed touch for the stop. Corcoran and Millan would both finish the match with five saves.
The Jacks will shift the focus to Sunday's matchup with the Sacramento State Hornets, set to kick off at 1 p.m. MST in Lumberjack Stadium. Fans can arrive early to watch NAU Soccer's Senior Day celebration and recognition. To stay up to date with NAU Soccer, follow the Jacks on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
