MOSCOW, Idaho – Idaho's incredible 2015 season came to a close on Sunday, with the Vandals falling to Northern Colorado on penalty kicks in the Big Sky Championship Game.
“Sometimes we play a cruel game,” said head coach Derek Pittman. “I could not be more proud of our players right now. No one would've ever dreamed of a season like this. I cannot complain one bit. Hats off to Northern Colorado.”
Idaho scored first, but Northern Colorado leveled the game early in the second half, forcing overtime. After two scoreless frames, the match went to penalty kicks where the Bears eventually won, 3-0.
The Vandals had a brilliant season, setting program records for goals, assists, points and shutouts. Idaho also tied the program record for wins in a season with 14 and finished the year unbeaten at home.
“I thought our kids fought and gave everything they had,” Pittman said. “There are absolutely not complaints from me and I'm so proud of our players. Obviously this one stings a little bit, but we'll pick ourselves up and realize this was an unbelievable season although we didn't end up walking away with the tournament championship.”
The Vandals struck first, scoring in the 12th minute. Olivia Baggerly drove down the right side and sent in a low cross to Kayla Watanabe at the near post. Watanabe flicked the ball up and across the front of the goal. Elexis Schlossarek handled the rest, scoring on a diving header.
Northern Colorado leveled the score in the 56th minute, with Mariel Gutierrez scoring off a cross.
Schlossarek, Watanabe, Baggerly, Kavita Battan and Amanda Poertner were named to the All-Tournament team.
Fans can stay up-to-date on all things Idaho soccer by following the team on Twitter and Instagram, @VandalsSoccer, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals Women's Soccer.
For more information on Idaho Athletics, visit GoVandals.com. Fans can also find Idaho on Twitter and Instagram, @Idaho_Vandals, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals.
