Kent State University
12-4-1 (8-1-0MAC)
University of Toledo
7-4-3 (4-3-2MAC)
Soccer Repeats as MAC East Champs in 1-0 Shutout Over Toledo
10/19/2017 10:02:00 PM | Women's Soccer
KENT, Ohio – The Kent State soccer team (12-4-1, 8-1-0 MAC) recorded its 11th clean sheet of the season in a 1-0 victory over Toledo (7-4-3, 4-3-2 MAC) on Thursday night at Dix Stadium. The Golden Flashes clinched the MAC East Division crown for the second year in a row, and sit atop the Mid-American Conference standings (24 points). Vital Kats' goal in the 22nd minute proved to be the decisive score.
"I was a really tough match, and I have to give a lot of credit to Toledo, they put a lot of pressure on us," said Kent State head coach Rob Marinaro. "We defended really well to hold on to the lead and it was a great effort by our entire team."
Kats scored her team-leading fifth goal of the season on a 20-yard rocket into the upper right corner on the goal. Senior Kristen Brots recorded her team-high fifth assist.
In the second period, Toledo amped up its offensive attack and rattled off seven shots. Sophomore Sierra Henderson-Muschett made a stellar defensive play to head the ball out of the goal after it got past the keeper.
"Sierra had a great play to keep the ball out of the net and Jaime had a crucial play with a block. It's all about the team sacrifice to keep the clean sheet," said Marinaro. "The big difference is the overall commitment that we keep our 18-yard box clean and it has been done game in and game out. The sacrifice is appreciated by everybody."
With the shutout, this year's squad ties the 2003 team for most shutouts in a season at Kent State (11). The Golden Flashes have won five in a row, and have not allowed a goal during the streak. Kent State has only allowed two goals in MAC competition.
Overall, Kent State led in shots (16-12), corner kicks (6-3) and tied in shots on goal (6-6). Senior Katie Kingsbury (4-1-0) made five saves while facing 12 shots. Toledo's Madison Perrin (7-6-3) made five saves and allowed one goal.
The Golden Flashes locked up hosting the MAC Tournament quarterfinals on Sunday, Oct. 29 at a time and opponent to be determined.
Kent State remains in the friendly confines of Dix Stadium for a tilt with Bowling Green on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 1 p.m.
Be sure to follow Kent State Soccer on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for news and in-match updates about the squad.
Team Stats
KATS, Vital (5)
Assisted By: BROTS, Kristen
20 yards out, upper right corner.
22:21
