Miami Earns 0-0 Draw Against Virginia Tech
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – The University of Miami soccer team (3-5-3) battled for 90 minutes to earn an impressive 0-0 draw against Virginia Tech (8-3-2) Thursday night.
“Tonight was a great college soccer game,” said Head Coach Ken Masuhr. “It was competitive, it was end to end, and I am proud of the effort and commitment of our group to earn a draw. Virginia Tech is a very good team, but we limited their chances after halftime as we gained more control of the game. Earning a clean sheet in the league is difficult, but I think this team wanted more tonight and I loved to see that mentality from them.”
The Hurricanes recorded 13 shots, seven of which were on frame, including 12 shots in the second half alone, as they dominated the final 45 minutes and nearly found the back of the net numerous times.
Miami received a tremendous defensive effort from the back line, as well as an exceptional performance from goalkeeper Claireese Foley, who compiled a career-high six saves.
After some back and forth play to begin the match, with neither team able to create any significant chances, Jessica Kaye nearly broke through for the Canes. The freshman intercepted a pass near midfield and dribbled all the way to the top of the box, racing by multiple Virginia Tech defenders, before ripping a shot on frame that forced the Hokies’ goalkeeper, Lauren Hargrove, to make a tough save.
VT managed to create a few opportunities down the stretch of the first period; but, Foley made some incredible saves to keep the match even heading into halftime.
Miami came out of the break and significantly elevated their play, as they began to take command of the match and place immense pressure on the Virginia Tech defense.
In the 63rd minute, Giovana Canali took a shot that was blocked, and JJ Ndaw came up with the loose ball and put a left-footed shot on frame that almost snuck by Hargrove; however, she came up with the save. Ndaw’s near-goal ignited the Canes’ offense, as they began to drill shot after shot and they Hargrove was forced to make a plethora of stellar saves.
A few minutes later, Canali nearly found the back of the net herself off an exceptional cross from Kyla Gallagher.
In the 70th minute, Gisselle Kozarksi placed a beautiful one-touch shot while on the run on target; but, the Hokies recorded another save.
Miami continued to create chances and put dangerous shots on frame; however, they were unable to produce the game-winning goal, as they went on to earn the draw against the Hokies.
The Canes will return to the field on Sunday, as they are slated to host Florida Atlantic at Cobb Stadium with the match scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.
