The Pioneers played back-to-back games this weekend, losing to Colorado College but then comin back to defeat Air Force 2-1.
On Saturday, Colorado College defeated DU 1-2 in double overtime in game two of the Falcon Invitational at the Cadet Soccer Stadium, the first time the teams have faced off since 2001.
“I don’t really know if the postponement of the game threw them off,” said head coach Jeff Hooker. “I feel it was more the first week of school beginning.”
The Pioneers went into halftime with a 1-0 lead but could not hold on in the second half when Colorado College tied the game with only 25:42 left on the clock.
“We felt we did a good job controlling the game and we created a lot of opportunities to score a second goal before overtime,” said Hooker.
Despite DU’s efforts, the score at the end of regulation was still 1-1. DU had 10 shots on goal while Colorado College had nine.
The game ended in the 102nd minute when Colorado College put one past junior goalkeeper Mackenzie Snyder to give her team its fifth win of the season. Snyder ended with five saves.
In their next game in the tournament on Sunday, the Pioneers faced off against Air Force and defeated the Falcons 2-1.
Senior midfielder Taryn Hemmings scored both goals for Denver. Her first goal went in early, just 14:15 into the game, setting a strong pace for the Pioneers.
“Getting senior Taryn Hemmings back who was injured last season has been a nice addition,” said Hooker.
Air Force tied the game with a penalty kick in the 25th minute after freshman Bridgett Murphy was taken down inside the box. It was the first penalty kick Snyder has faced this season.
The game was tied 1-1 at the half, but Denver outshot Air Force nine to five. Eight minutes into the second half Hemmings put in the game-winning goal, bringing Denver up 2-1.
The Pioneers doubled Air Force’s shots on goal 16 to eight. Snyder had two saves for the Pioneers.
Colorado College won the Falcon Invitational and Denver finished second.
Freshman midfielder Kari Storslett, Hemmings and Jessi Keller all made the Falcon Invitational All-Tournament team.
“Our season up until Saturday was perfect, we have beaten and tied some very good opponents and continue to improve,” said Hooker.
The Pioneers take on Fresno State Friday at 2 p.m. and then Gonzaga on Sunday at 11 a.m. Both games will be played at Prentup Field in Boulder as a part of the Colorado Soccer Classic hosted by CU.
