Skip to content

Anna Rexford records multiple saves in draw against Michigan State

Following multiple weather delays due to rain and lightning in the area, the Cincinnati soccer team walked away with a scoreless draw against Michigan State on Sunday evening as Anna Rexford stepped up with a second straight clean sheet.

The match was initially postponed an hour before being pushed back a second time during the first half for nearly 90 minutes. Rexford made a couple of impressive saves when the Spartans were threatening in the second half en route to a 0-0 tie.

Cincinnati totaled five shots including a near goal in the 84th minute as Brandi Thomsen got a great look but couldn’t quite give the Bearcats a lead. Lauren Bastian recorded three shots, while Vanessa DiNardo attempted one shot in the draw.

Michigan State created several scoring opportunities and totaled 10 shots but failed to find the back of the net against Rexford. The junior goalkeeper made a pair of diving saves to keep the Spartans scoreless and help Cincinnati stay unbeaten.

Cincinnati Soccer: Anna Rexford records multiple saves in draw against Michigan State

Bearcats head coach Neil Stafford discussed Rexford per Cincinnati Athletics.

“Anna Rexford was outstanding today. She keeps getting better every game. I think she looks way more decisive than she ever has. She’s confident and certainly kept us in the game today. Her organization has gone to another level.”

Rexford’s performance was highlighted by a fully-extended save as Michigan State attempted to take a lead late in the second half. It was the first time Cincinnati recorded two consecutive clean sheets since defeating Temple and UConn in 2019.

Stafford explained his thoughts on the scoreless draw via Cincinnati Athletics.

“I thought our team demonstrated great resilience today. A few of our freshmen really stepped up. With the weather delays and the stop start that we endured, I was really proud of the mentality and fight that our players showed this afternoon.”

Cincinnati will try to extend the scoreless streak on Thursday night in the first road trip of the regular season at Bowling Green. We’ll be in attendance with in-game coverage as the Bearcats look to remain undefeated all-time against the in-state foe.