BYU women’s soccer heads into its game today with a burst of confidence coming off of a 5-0 shutout against the University of Idaho on Tuesday.
The Cougars will play in-state opponent Utah State at 7 p.m. on South Field.
BYU is hoping to go into this game with the same fire it had against the University of Idaho, said junior Carlee Payne.
[/media-credit]- BYU forward Jennie Marshall leaps to head the ball against Utah in August. The Cougars beat Idaho 5-0 on Tuesday, and are ready to beat the Utah State Aggies on Thursday.
“We want to be confident and play to our potential,” Payne said. “It’s important that we are positive, have fun and play the game that we know how to play.”
While the Cougars are prepared and excited for their game, head coach Jennifer Rockwood said the team will definitely have to come out strong in order to win.
“Utah State has had a fantastic year,” Rockwood said. “They have a great, experienced team and they are playing with a lot of confidence. Utah State will come in just like they do every year and give us a great battle, but I think we will be ready to go on [tonight].”
Rockwood also said it is key the players remember their love for the sport going into this game.
“We are going to have to come out, work hard, and remember why we play,” Rockwood said. “The girls love the game and they play better when they are having fun and have confidence.”
Utah State comes to Provo on a two-game losing streak, which are the only losses so far this season. Like BYU, the Aggies recently lost two games against Oklahoma teams, including a 1-0 loss to Oklahoma State.
BYU and Utah State have faced five similar teams this season. They each have victories over Utah, Idaho State and Cal State Fullerton, and both have lost to No. 2 Oklahoma State. However, Utah State was able to put away a win over Rice, while BYU tied the Owls 0-0.
BYU hasn’t lost to Utah State in the eight times the teams have played, but the Aggies sport a solid 8-0-2 record this season.
One thing that could cause problems for the Cougars is a recent player’s injury. Senior forward Auna Doria suffered a knee injury during the Idaho State game, and it is unsure whether she will be able to return this season.
Fans who aren’t able to make it to the game can listen to the game on BYU Radio (Sirius XM 143) or follow the live stats found on the BYU women’s soccer website.
