Huskers Break Out With 3-0 Win Over UAB

Lincoln-The Huskers got in the win column for the first time this season with a 3-0 win over UAB in front of 472 fans at the Nebraska Soccer Field on Sunday. NU forward Shay Powell scored twice and goalkeeper Brittany Pfeil played 86 minutes of shutout soccer to boost the Huskers to 1-4 on the year.

 

Nebraska outshot the Blazers 22-9, putting 11 shots on goal and allowing just five for UAB. The Huskers racked up a 5-2 edge in corner kicks.

 

The Huskers played inspired ball early in the game, putting up 12 shots and two goals in the first half. Powell, a junior, capitalized on a UAB turnover deep in their own territory and beat Blazer goalkeeper Ashley Park with a low shot to the far post. The 21st-minute goal was her first of the season and second career game-winner.

 

Freshman sensation Molly Thomas added another score less than two minutes later on a corner kick. Senior forward Aysha Jamani bent a high-arching cross from the left side that Thomas headed into the net just in front of Park. Thomas is now tied for the team lead in points with five.

 

Powell added an insurance goal in the 65th minute on another hustle play. She gained possession on a steal just outside UAB’s box and connected with a low shot that slid past Park once again. The two goals marked Powell’s first career multi-goal match. She finished with six total shots, directing all on net. Six different Huskers had at least two shots in the game.<?xml:namespace prefix="o" ns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office"?>

 

Nebraska’s defense clicked just as well, holding UAB to an opponent season-low nine shots. Pfeil, making just her second career start, collected four saves and combined with sophomore Jessica Mills for the shutout.

 

The Huskers continue their homestand with a 5 p.m. Friday contest with Drake at the Nebraska Soccer Field. NU plays its next seven games at home.