Fresno State Athletics
Fresno State
1-4
Eastern Kentucky
1-1-1
Gutierrez Goal Lifts Bulldogs
9/5/2008 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
Sept. 5, 2008
FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno State women's soccer team earned their first win of the season defeating Eastern Kentucky 1-0 Friday night. Nicole Gutierrez scored the winning goal for the Bulldogs in the 80th minute of play.
"It is exciting to finally get the win," said Senior Nicole Gutierrez. "We have all been working really hard for this, every player on the team."
The first half was evenly matched and few shots were taken at either end of the field. Towards the end of the half Fresno State came alive and started making plays out of the midfield.
Several Bulldogs got in on the action taking shots at the Colonels goalkeeper Stephanie Lynch. Fresno State had a total of 18 shots, 12 of which were on goal.
"The intensity was there and we were winning the ball in the attacking third," said Coach Steve Springthorpe. "The overall pressure on the ball was better in this game."
After numerous close calls, Nicole Gutierrez was able to put the ball in the back of the net. Molly Nizzoli took a shot and it was deflected allowing Gutierrez to score. Gutierrez has 18 career goals and is six away from moving into fifth place in Fresno State history.
The offense was not the only ones working hard. Sophomore goalkeeper Kaitlyn Revel recorded her first shutout of the season.She earned her 10th career shutout and needs three more to pass Mary-tyler Wahl.Revel did not receive one shot all night.
"The defense pressured the ball early and didn't allow them to take shots," said Springthorpe. "It was a great crowd and atmosphere for soccer tonight."
Over 1,200 fans came out to support the Bulldogs, including a local fraternity.
Fresno State's overall record improved to 1-4. It was the first lost of the season for the Colonels of Eastern Kentucky.
"Join the State, Fresno State!" - The Bulldogs continue non-conference play at Bulldog Stadium on Thursday, September 11 as they host Florida International at 7:00 p.m. for Proud to be an American Night. All military and local government agency workers will receive two free tickets with presentation of official ID at the box office. September is also Youth Soccer Month. All youth soccer players 8th grade and under who wear their jerseys get in for free and their rest of the family is admitted for $2 per person. To purchase tickets, click on the tickets icon at the top of this page, call the Bulldog Ticket Office at (559) 278-DOGS, or stop by the Bulldog Ticket Office.
Team Stats
Gutierrez, Nicole
Assisted By: Nizzoli, Molly
Nizoli shot deflected Gutierrez scored o
80:42
