POCATELLO, Idaho – Idaho (5-4-1, 1-0-0) got Big Sky Conference play started in style, with a 2-1 win over in-state rival Idaho State (1-8-1, 0-1-0). Kavita Battan was stellar for the Vandals, scoring both goals. The win is the 100th in program history.
“Idaho State is a tough place to play and the Bengals are better than their record indicates,” said head coach Derek Pittman. “I'm extremely proud of our players and how they just found a way tonight even when it wasn't our best performance. Sometimes it's just the team that fights until the end and shows the most discipline. We showed great mental toughness to win on the road.”
The Vandals got the scoring started in the 12th minute, with Battan scoring her team-leading fifth goal of the season. Olivia Baggerly sent over a pass to the flank to set up Battan, who sent in a well-placed shot into the top corner.
The Bengals leveled the score in the 57th minute, with Maria Sanchez scoring off a deflection. Sanchez, a member of the Mexican National Team, currently leads the Big Sky in goals and points.
Idaho reclaimed the lead in the 86th minute, with Battan scoring her second of the game and sixth of the season. After a Kayla Watanabe shot was blocked, Battan picked up the rebound and buried it for the goal.
“Kavita is riding high with confidence right now and is putting herself in great spots to score goals,” Pittman said. “But she couldn't do it without her teammates. Everyone is doing her job right now and we are sticking together through tough times. That's what good teams do and now we turn our focus to a good Weber State team.”
Idaho out-shot Idaho State, 20-18, on the day. Goalkeeper Amanda Poertner continues to impress, making seven saves on the day.
It is the second time this season that Battan scored twice in a game, after doing so against Memphis two weeks ago.
Next up, the Vandals head to Ogden, Utah, to take on Weber State. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. (Pacific).
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.
