FORT COLLINS — In the battle between the Rams and the Bears, it was the Rams who came out on top.
Colorado State bested the University of Northern Colorado women’s soccer team on Friday afternoon, 1-0, in the two teams’ exhibition game before the season starts in earnest.
The Rams scored the only goal in the 54th minute. They took seven shots, six on goal. Northern Colorado allowed two corner kicks, as well.
UNC had a few good opportunities in the match, but the team — which has a lot of new faces — was not able to convert. Obviously, that was disappointing, but Bears head coach Tim Barrera said it was a good chance to see where the team is strong and where it is deficient, as well as experiment with lineups.
“It’s great to be able to play an exhibition just across town. It’s good competition,” Barrera said. “They play a certain way, and we play a certain way. It was a good matchup and good preparation for both teams.”
Thirty-three Bears took the field in the match, with everyone getting at least 10 minutes on the pitch. They took four shots, two of which were on target.
One of the benefits of preseason games is that they allow the staff to evaluate which lineups are most effective.
“With a lot of players, it’s about (them) getting to know each other and understanding how they play,” Barrera said. “That’s still going on.”
UNC saw good improvements on Friday compared to its outing against Air Force last Saturday, Barrera said. There seemed to be more intensity and purpose, and the defense is starting to click.
Graduate defender Maddie Duren agreed, noting improvements already.
“I think having a game under our belt was definitely helpful, because we played in the heat last week and it was really hot today,” Duren said. “We were able to use more numbers than we did last week, so I think that definitely helps. I think it was a good step forward from last week.”
Photos: Northern Colorado Bears fall to the Colorado State Rams 1-0 at CSU Soccer Field
One of the biggest deficiencies is the attacking game. It’s not bad, but the Bears are trying to replace two of the top players in the Big Sky.
“We’ve got some options, but it’s tough to replace Lexi Pulley and Taylor Bray who were basically three- and four-year starters for us, top three scorers in the league,” Barrera said. “That’s part of the challenge.”
UNC has about five forwards who are expected to make waves. Senior Britney Donais, junior Melina Faris, sophomores Lauren Woodhull and Lauren Fuller, and freshman Riley Kaali-Nagy are likely going to have big roles this season.
Kaali-Nagy scored the team’s lone goal in the match against Air Force and the others already have collegiate experience.
It is also replacing Ashley Franza and Morgan Bury, two starting goalkeepers. The Bears had three athletes step into the box, and they all recorded at least one save.
Junior Kaya Lindberg contributed three and played 45 minutes.
“We’ve got a lot of freshmen and young players who come out and help us, make a difference,” said Duren. “I think, with time, once we all learn how to play together, we can do some good things. I’m excited for going forward.”
UNC was the favorite to win the Big Sky in the preseason coaches poll. It officially starts the 2022 season at 7 pm Thursday when Wyoming comes to Jackson Field.