The No. 24 Arizona State Sun Devils managed to defeat the No. 11 USC 1-0 and snap a two-year losing streak against the Trojans.
Coming into the first half of the game, both teams were aggressive. The defensive effort was a particular highlight.
“I was extremely proud of the defensive effort we showed tonight. I think we can still be better when in possession but that is also down the limited space our opponents gave us,” ASU coach Graham Winkworth said.
However, the game took a turn in the second half, as the refs made a controversial call which caused Winkworth to be frustrated.
“It was clear as day to me. It was about a couple yards outside of the penalty area, and they got a penalty kick,” Winkworth said. “I’m just very grateful that the fourth official saw it from my angle, and it would’ve been devastating to lose or not win the game based upon a decision like that.”
After the overturned call, the Sun Devils regained their rhythm and composure in the 72nd minute. Redshirt senior midfielder Hannah Lapeire scored the game-ending goal for her team.
Junior forward Keri Matthews received a throw-in deep in USC’s third of the pitch. The veteran forward fired a high-arching cross over the outstretched arms of USC sophomore keeper Hannah Dickinson. Lapeire was waiting for it and punched it in for the Sun Devils.
Sophomore goalkeeper Pauline Nelles finished with two saves and notched her ninth clean sheet of the 2023 season. Nelles saved a potential equalizer in the 80th minute to help secure the victory.
As Winkworth and the Sun Devils celebrate their win over the Trojans, they will have to gear up for Sunday as they face off against the No. 3 UCLA Bruins in Tempe.
“I’m going to enjoy tonight. I’ve got my father-in-law in town, and we’re probably going to celebrate with some ramen coat,” the coach said. “And then tomorrow morning, we’re going to prepare for UCLA.”
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