University of Washington
Stanford
Dawgs Unable To Topple No. 1 Stanford
October 02, 2016 | Women's Soccer
STANFORD, Calif. – With No. 1 Stanford scoring early in the match, the Washington women's soccer team was unable to mount a comeback, falling 3-0 today at Laird Q. Cagan Stadium.
"We aren't going to let this team use injuries or missing players as an excuse," said Washington head coach Lesle Gallimore. "They came to Washington to compete in one of the best conferences in the country and they need to be accountable to that in training and on game day. You cannot compete in spurts, you have to compete all of the time."
One of the best offenses in the country wasted no time getting on the board, as Stanford took a shot in the third minute that bounced off of a diving Sarah Shimer, which a Cardinal striker hit off the rebound into the back of the net. Moments later, Stanford's keeper, Jane Campbell, was given a red card after taking out a running Kimberly Keever in the box but the Huskies were unable to convert the ensuing penalty kick.
"This game had many moments when we needed to capitalize on opportunities to score," said Gallimore. "Clearly Shannon's penalty kick being saved was one, but she is a player that has put this team on her back many times this season and I know she takes it personally each game; she's a winner."
As the first half rolled on Stanford continued to attack, taking a total of 10 shots in the first 45 minutes of play. To end the half Stanford picked up their second card of the day, a yellow on midfielder Michelle Xiao.
"We had times in the first half when we had play in the final third and for as dynamic as Stanford's midfielders and forwards are, we did an okay job of limiting their quality chances," said Gallimore. "But when you give up soft goals early like the first one and spot the number one team in the country a goal, you're going to be looking at an uphill battle."
The Cardinal opened up the second half on a quick goal less than 30 seconds in, as Tierna Davidson hit a ball in the top right corner, just missing the UW keeper Shimer. Subbing on in the 55th minute, senior Miranda Rawlings had two close chances for the Dawgs, with a header that just missed the post followed by a close shot in the 73rd minute.
"Stanford was very good with 10 players as they possess one of the best and deepest groups in the country," said Gallimore. "The early second half goal was inexcusable, again, just disappointed in big focus moments. After we scored on Cal Thursday, they scored immediately. Today we gave up goals within three minutes or less of each half."
Stanford's lead was extended in the 58th minute of the match when the Huskies attempted to hit a Cardinal cross out of bounds, but the lob sailed just over the keeper's head and bounced into the net.
Washington will return home this week as they continue Pac-12 play, hosting Arizona State Thursday October 6th at 4 p.m., followed by Arizona on Sunday October 9th at 1 p.m. Each match will be televised by the Pac-12 Network, and feature a double-header with the men's soccer team.
"We are looking forward to getting back home and getting back on track," said Gallimore. "There is a lot of season left and this team won't quit working for a result."
