AKRON, Oh. - Oakland was unable to open their season with back-to-back wins as they fell to the University of Akron by a final score of 3-0 on Sunday at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Despite the loss, Oakland had a solid offensive outing, managing six shots, four of which were on goal. The first period commenced with the Golden Grizzlies applying pressure early, as
Lilly Boebel's shot in the 2nd minute tested Akron's goalkeeper, Sara Bower, who made the save.
Norah Schmidt, in goal for Oakland, responded by saving a shot from the Zips' Allie McMillen in the 13th minute, maintaining the early scoreless draw.
After nearly an hour-long weather delay in the 22nd minute, the teams would resume play, and it was Akron who capitalized first, breaking the deadlock in the 33rd minute when Rachel Wenzel found the back of the net for the Zips.
Akron extended its lead late in the half, with Emma Ogdahl scoring in the 42nd minute, assisted by Callee DalBon. The period concluded with Akron ahead, 2-0.
The second half began with the Zips applying pressure, but Oakland's defense, anchored by Schmidt, made several key saves. Despite this, Akron managed to score the dagger in the 77th minute, extending its lead with a goal by Wenzel, assisted by Olivia Pilato.
Oakland responded with attempts to shift the momentum, with
Mallory Anderson and
Bailey Giddings both recording shots on goal. However, they could not break through Akron's defense as The match concluded with Akron taking a 3-0 victory.
Schmidt recorded nine saves, facing 20 shots in her defensive effort.
Morgan Malek contributed offensively with one shot on goal from her defensive position. Giddings pushed forward with two shots, while Anderson managed to keep the pressure on with two shots of her own, both on goal.
Looking ahead, Oakland will host Bowling Green on Thursday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. ET at Oakland Soccer Field in Rochester, Michigan.
