Kent State University
0-2-1, 0-0-0
Dayton
3-0-1, 0-0-0
Flashes Can't Fend Off Flyers, Fall 1-0
8/28/2022 4:05:00 PM | Women's Soccer
DAYTON, Ohio – On a scorching Sunday afternoon, the Kent State soccer team dropped a hard-fought battle on the road against Dayton, falling 1-0.
The Golden Flashes' defense was busy breaking up the Dayton attack all game. In the first half, the Flyers (3-0-1) were able to produce nine corner kicks and thirteen shots, but the game was even at the 45-minute mark thanks to some stellar plays by the back line and goalkeeper Sarah Melén. Melén had six saves in the half, including a number of acrobatic diving stops.
In the 64th minute, a Dayton free kick led to the lone goal of the match. Despite generating some solid runs in the final minutes, the Flashes were unable to find the equalizer.
The back line of Tianna Harris, Abby Breitschuh, Dalaney Ranallo, and Joey Skillen had a very strong match for Kent State, breaking up numerous Dayton attacks. They also defended last season's Atlantic 10 Offensive Player of the Year, Itala Gemelli, exceptionally well. The junior had three goals and an assist entering the match, but the Flashes did not allow her to attempt even a single shot.
Melén finished with 13 saves, the third double-digit save total of her career.
The Flashes return to the pitch on Wednesday, Aug. 31, to take on Pitt (4-0) in their second-consecutive road contest.
For more information on the Kent State soccer team, follow Kent State Soccer on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and visit kentstatesports.com for additional information
Team Stats
Natalie Hegg (1)
GOAL by DAY Hegg, Natalie.
63:35
