By: Kyle Keck | Sports Writer
An unusual finish at Turner Stadium edged the Taylor women's soccer team to a 4-3 victory over Saint Francis (IL) on Saturday's home opener.
Heading into the home opener, Taylor had yet to score a goal in their season. In their previous match, the Trojans were blanked by Campbellsville University 0-4. Scoring in their first game was a struggle, but Taylor found the back of the net four times on their home turf.
"In the second game we took less shots, but were in a much better goal-scoring position when we took our shots," head coach Scott Stan said. "The second key was being more calm and composed in those shooting zones."
Taylor marked its first tally of the year on the scoreboard early in the first half. After rough play in the box, junior Shelbi Lowe knocked in a penalty kick to take a 1-0 lead.
Lowe, plagued by concussions last season, has finally bounced back to full strength. Being sidelined with injuries helped her realize how much the game truly meant to her.
"It feels incredible being back after concussions and migraines," Lowe said. "I really learned to value the game more, my teammates more and learned to believe in myself. You appreciate the talents that God has given you and God's promises a lot more after going through hardships and setbacks."
Taylor received another penalty kick in the first half, which sophomore Hadlee Yescott netted to take a 2-1 lead into halftime. The Trojans then took a commanding 3-1 lead early in the second half after freshman Maddi Guillaume scored her first collegiate goal.
Saint Francis had no plans of rolling over. The Fighting Saints scored two goals in two minutes to tie the game at three. With 13 minutes remaining, however, an aggressive Taylor offensive attack turned into a blunder by the Saint Francis goalkeeper.
"We kept up the pressure on the other team in front of their goal and forced them into making a mistake that secured the win, and that is a great feeling," Stan said.
Junior Anna Miller also felt great after earning her first career win with a career high eight saves.
"It felt great to contribute to the team and be able to step up and play my position," Miller said. "I'm extremely thankful for the opportunity I had to play against Saint Francis."
Taylor (1-1) takes the field again today when the Trojans host Roosevelt University at 4 p.m.
Photograph by Chris Yingling
