Overtime Tally Dooms Spartans

Aug. 31, 2007

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EAST LANSING, Mich. - BYU's Kassidy Christensen scored the game-winning goal in overtime to give BYU a 1-0 win over the Michigan State women's soccer team on Friday at Old College Field. The golden goal ended the season opener for both teams in the contest's 94th minute.

Nearly four minutes into the overtime period, BYU's Becca Riddle fired shot that deflected off the outstretched hand of MSU goalkeeper Nicole Galas. The rebound bounced right to Christensen, who found the back of the net at the 93:53 mark.

"It's disappointing to allow a goal in overtime after such a good effort, but we're encouraged with how we played today," head coach Tom Saxton said. "We played hard and had some decent chances. We matched up well with what I think is one of the best teams in the country."

Michigan State (0-1) got its best chance at the 55:03 mark when freshman Cara Freeman maneuvered into the box for a shot from five yards out. BYU goalkeeper Erika Woodbury timed the shot perfectly, grabbing it out of the air and holding the Spartans scoreless.

Both goalies remained busy throughout the afternoon, each facing several good scoring opportunities. Galas stopped eight shots for MSU and Woodbury turned away five. BYU (1-0) recorded 14 shots in the fast-paced affair, including 10 shots on goal. The Spartans countered with 10 shots with five on target.

Riddle and Christensen each had a team-high three shots for the Cougars, combining for five tries on goal. Senior Maureen Pawlak led the Spartans with three shots, including a header early in the match that required a nice save effort from Woodbury.

MSU returns to action against Syracuse on Sunday, Sept. 2 at 1 p.m. in a match that will be televised by the Big Ten Network.