By Henry Quach
Despite its best efforts to gain points on the road, Mayland once again fell short in a 1-0 loss to Illinois on Sunday.
The Terps defense was tested early on, but warded off the first few chances from the Fighting Illini offense. But Maryland’s strong defensive start was soon undone by a foul in the 17th minute.
A hard challenge in the box from Maryland’s Katie Coyle resulted in a yellow card for the defender, and subsequent penalty kick for Illinois. Sarah Foley converted the golden opportunity to give the Fighting Illini a crucial 1-0 lead.
The goal sparked a sizable momentum shift for the Illinois offense. Heavy pressure persisted as the Fighting Illini posted eight shots in the first half, but the Terps’ defense held strong to ensure the disadvantage didn’t get out of hand.
Senior shot stopper Liz Beardsley was also busy in goal during the opening 45 minutes, notching three saves.
“Liz in the first half came up big to keep us one, nothing, and that’s what Liz does,” coach Meghan Ryan Nemzer said. “I think the biggest thing is making sure that, once again, … she continues to have confidence, because she definitely kept us in the game and allowed us to have a fighting chance.”
Suppressing Illinois’ attack soon gave Maryland’s offense opportunities to score. The Terps attempted shots in the 32nd and 34th minute — Maryland’s only of the first half. Both were fired off target.
Illinois led in every offensive category, and carried its 1-0 advantage into the break.
Action in a more even second half started with a 58th-minute save from Beardsley.
A positive string of play then saw Maryland attempt a trio of shots between the 66th and 70th minutes. The first of those drew a save from Illinois goalkeeper Izzy Lee. The final one was a Taryn Raibon effort that was inches away from equalizing, but ultimately hit the top of the woodwork.
The Terps and Fighting Illini both totaled three shots in the second half, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough for the away side. Maryland’s offensive struggles were once again present, in its fourth conference shutout loss of the season.
With plenty of games still ahead, Ryan Nemzer said that she hopes her team’s attack will continue improving.
The Terps end their three game road trip as they travel to Columbus for a showdown with No. 11 Ohio State on Friday.
