Rey and Neil Score as #24 USAO Falls to #23 OUAZ

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Saturday evening, the No. 24 ranked University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (5-3, 0-0 SAC) concluded the non-conference portion of their schedule with a tough 5-2 loss against No. 23 ranked Ottawa University Arizona (6-1, 0-0 GSAC).

After the contest remained scoreless for the opening 10 minutes of play, the Spirit were able to strike first with a goal in the 11^th minute. OUAZ increased their lead to 2-0 with another goal in the 23^rd minute, prior to the Drovers getting on the scoreboard with Marissa Neil's first goal of the season in the 32^nd minute. The score remained 2-1 going into halftime. 

Following the break, the Spirit quickly stretched their lead to 3-1 with a goal only two minutes into the half. However, the Drovers responded only two minutes later as Alicia Rey struck for her 12^th goal of the season. 

Following Rey's goal, OUAZ was able to score two more unanswered goals while holding USAO scoreless.  

In the loss, USAO controlled the possession of the ball for majority of the contest, but OUAZ was able to capitalize on the opportunities that they did create. At the conclusion of the game, the Drovers held an advantage in shots on goal by a margin of 10-9, and both teams were whistled for 11 fouls.

Caitlin Bishop got the start in goal for the Drovers and was relieved by Ashlyn Lonberg midway through the second half. Lonberg stopped all three shots that she faced.

Dagbjort Gudmunsdottir assisted on both goals for the Drovers and now owns five assists on the season, which ranks 10^th in the NAIA and leads the Sooner Athletic Conference.

Alicia Rey continued to shine as she remains as the NAIA leader in goals scored (12) and points (28). In her marvelous career, Rey has tallied 56 goals, 31 assists, and 141 points in 68 games played.

WHAT'S NEXT?

#24 USAO will open conference play on Tuesday, September 26 when they host a top 25 showdown against No. 14 ranked John Brown University. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM CT. This big-time game will also be the Annual First Responders Night, hosted by Drover Soccer, and all first responders get into the games for free and they will be recognized for their heroics on the pitch.

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