Benedictine Mesa women's soccer faced a difficult test on Thursday afternoon, falling 5-0 to Embry-Riddle (AZ) in a conference matchup on the road.
The Redhawks opened the game with an early look from
Rylee Hatcher in the second minute, but her shot was stopped by Embry-Riddle keeper Aubrianne Dupre. From there, the Eagles quickly took control, striking first in the 5th minute when Jamie Black found the back of the net off assists from Jamie Brandon and Ava Forrester. Just over a minute later, Tessa Updegraff doubled the lead, and Embry-Riddle added a third goal in the 15th minute courtesy of Molly Newlin.
Despite the offensive surge from the Eagles, Benedictine goalkeeperÂ
Thea Draganova stood strong between the posts, recording multiple saves throughout the first half to keep the Redhawks within reach. Draganova tallied over 10 stops in the opening period alone as Embry-Riddle continued to push forward.
In the second half, the Eagles extended their lead when Jamie Black scored her second goal of the match in the 52nd minute. Later in the 74th, Leah Barone added a fifth goal, sealing the result for Embry-Riddle.
The Redhawks battled hard throughout the match, with contributions across the roster. Goalkeepers Draganova andÂ
Tatum Lally, who entered in the second half, combined for an impressive number of saves to limit further damage against a relentless Eagles attack. Benedictine also created opportunities on set pieces, including corner kicks from
Cahryn Rod and
Brylee Rod, but were unable to capitalize.
Key Players
Looking Ahead
The Redhawks return home on Saturday to face Arizona Christian.
Â