Nov. 9, 2001
San Antonio, Texas-The University of Missouri women's soccer team stood up to be recognized. The Tigers proved once again that they can compete against the nation's finest teams, including No. 7 ranked Texas. Missouri battled through quadruple-overtime before falling to Texas 1-0 with just under three minutes before penalty kicks would have determined the match.
As in their earlier meeting this season, the Tigers and the Longhorns played an extremely physical and competitive game. Missouri came out with its greatest intensity this season using outside passing lines, concise ball movement and optimal defensive positioning to contend during the 145-minute game.
Although the statistics sheet reported Texas outshooting Mizzou 40-to-21, the shot on goal differential showing the Longhorns with just 13-of-40 shots on goal attests to the quality efforts of the Tiger defensive squad.
Senior defenders Mandy Waters and Dyana Russell both put forth-stellar performances settling the backfield and controlling Missouri's composure. Both plays continually came up with big plays for Mizzou going one-on-one with some of Texas' most potent forwards. Coupled with the efforts of newcomers Carrie Crossett and Kim Hibbert, the foursome anchored the Mizzou backfield during the entire match.
Forwards Adriene Davis and Melissa Peabody led the offensive force both taking five shot attempts. Freshmen Kristen Heil and Shea Swoboda burst into the game hard nosed and ferocious against the UT defensive line. Both players worked to rejuvenate the Tiger's efforts adding intensity in the Mizzou offensive attacks.
Highlighting for Missouri was goalkeeper Megan Duncan, who potentially played the finest game of her collegiate career to date. Time and again she came up with amazing saves, including a diving rescue on an indirect penalty kick with just two minutes remaining in regulation play. Duncan played all 147 minutes allowing one goal and making a career-high 12 saves.
Although Missouri has been knocked out of the Big 12 Tournament, the Tigers still stand in contention for an NCAA Tournament bid. The team will await word on Mon., Nov. 12 at 2:00 p.m., when the NCAA announces the 64 contending teams.