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[Grayson Wolf | WOUB]

Ohio Women’s Soccer Falls To Northern Kentucky

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) – After a hot start to the season, the Ohio women’s soccer team lost their second match in a row Thursday to Northern Kentucky.

Ohio dominated possession and created a flurry of chances early on. Sophomore midfielder Isabella Ginocchi got multiple looks at goal from the top of the box but failed to convert.

The Norse soon rallied and develop chances of their own later in the first half. The Bobcats’ defense lead by junior defender Ella Bianco held steady and handled the Northern Kentucky attack for a scoreless draw at the half.

In the second half, NKU ramped up their attack with each chance getting closer than the last.

In the 62nd minute, the Norse went on a fast counterattack that resulted in a brilliant through ball from Lindsey Meyer for striker Sofia Wilmes to put in the net for the first score of the match.

Ohio became aggressive in search of the equalizers, putting the Norse on their back foot defensively. NKU made desperate defensive plays, including a strong tackle of Ohio’s Haley Miller in the 87th minute that resulted in a no-call from the referee.

Ohio University women's soccer defends a free kick against Northern Kentucky University on Thursday
[Grayson Wolf | WOUB]
Northern Kentucky thwarted the aggressive offense from the Bobcats and held on for the 1-0 win.

A key component in the lack of burying chances for the Bobcats was the absence of lethal finisher Abby Townsend, who has not played for the team in two weeks. Ohio head coach Aaron Rodgers hopes to have her back by their next match.

Ohio had started the season out to a blazing start, winning three straight matches while conceding no goals. That momentum came to a halt Sunday when they lost their first match of the season 3-1 against Eastern Kentucky.

Rodgers wants to also focus on the little things to help get back in the win column.

“It comes down to that final decision,” he said. “Are we taking that shot, making the right pass, do we have the bravery to get into the box to finish those crosses. They’re small details, but they’re very important details that will result in goals.”

The Bobcats will look for a win this Sunday as they travel to face the Cleveland State Vikings.