FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (September 19, 2024) – As the Astrojacks made their debut in Northern Arizona Thursday night, NAU Soccer (0-4-3) took advantage of the occasion while grabbing a 0-0 draw against a one-loss New Mexico (4-1-2) squad.
"We came into this game knowing New Mexico is a really good team with a winning record, and we knew that we had to be more organized, disciplined and keep the ball a little bit more," head coach
Alan Berrios said. "I am so proud of this team for that clean sheet, and I think this is the steppingstone to keep going, I'm really happy with this team."
The Jacks handed the Lobos just their second draw of the season as NAU showcased an offense that has been typically more quiet through the first six regular season matchups. Nine of Northern Arizona's starting 11 would go on to see a full 90 minutes on the pitch, while the Jacks utilized four substitutes total.
Although a scoreless match, there was no lack of action as NAU started the match with solid possession, keeping the Lobos chasing to start. The Jacks were able to create four first-half corner kick opportunities while holding the Lobos to none through the first 35 minutes of play. Each program put up four shots on goal through the first frame, as
Trinity Corcoran and UNM keeper Callie Droitsch made four stops a piece.
Freshman
Valentina Navetta, alongside junior
Avery Ott each sent two shots up in the first half, splitting one on and one off each.
Holly Hunter and
Erin O'Connor each recorded one shot on goal in the first half while the Jacks looked to make an offensive surge with 10 minutes to go, subbing in
Deniah Wells and
Haylee Phoenix who each quickly tacked a shot on the stat sheet before the break.
Another 45 minutes wouldn't be enough for either squad to break the tie as both program's finished the match with 15 shots. Corcoran picked up eight stops tonight, putting her season save percentage at .846 while grabbing the first shutout of the season. Hunter and Ott led the team offensively with four shots a piece as Navetta followed with two.
NAU will now host former Big Sky opponent, Southern Utah for a 1 p.m. MST matchup on Sunday afternoon. To stay up to date with NAU Soccer, follow the Jacks on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
