Maryland women’s soccer falls behind Navy early, bounces back for another draw

Photo Courtesy of Maryland Athletics

When it seemed that the Terps were unable to capitalize on any chance given, graduate transfer Kam Fisher buried a shot in the bottom right corner off a crossing pass from fellow graduate student Malikae Dayes.

The goal would prove to be crucial, as neither Maryland nor Navy would bury another shot for the rest of the night.

In yet another grueling battle on the road, Maryland once again, found themselves leaving the pitch with just a draw, as Maryland and Navy ended at an even 1-1 tie.

Following a tough 1-1 draw against Temple last Thursday night, Maryland looked for a strong response against cross-town rival Navy. 

Just a minute and seven seconds into the game, Navy scored off the leg of midfielder Jenna Daunt to take an early one-goal lead.

The tide seemed to immediately favor the Midshipmen, who led the Terps in time of possession and shots for the first ten minutes of the match.

However, Maryland responded with a series of attacks in Navy’s defensive zone, eventually paying off with forward Kam Fisher’s equalizer in the 15th minute. Momentum swung to Maryland’s side and stuck there for nearly the rest of the game.

Despite this, the Terps couldn’t notch another goal even as they dominated time of possession in the offensive zone. Part of this was due to the diligence of both sides’ goalkeepers, who posted a number of impressive saves.

The game finished with Maryland notching 18 shots (6 on goal) compared to Navy’s 11 shots (4 on goal).

The match also proved to be a very physical one, with Maryland being charged with 15 fouls compared to Navy’s 13. Two yellow cards were handed out, one to Maryland’s Juliana Lynch in the 64th minute and one to Navy’s Alexa Riddle in the 50th minute. 

On the offensive side of the ball, Amanda Schafer stood out, with a team-high four shots, two of which were on goal. Alyssa Poarch had a nice game as well, with one shot going off the goalpost in the 48th minute. 

On defense, Malikae Dayes stopped two near breakaway goals thanks to a good recovery. Maryland’s keeper, Madeline Smith, notched 3 saves as well. 

Maryland is still looking to get into the win column following their first two games. Their next opportunity will come this Sunday, as they take on the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.