HAMMOND, La. --  The University of the Incarnate Word women's soccer team preserved its perfect Southland Conference standing with a 1-0 victory over Southeastern Louisiana University on Friday night. The Cardinals now stand at 2-0 in SLC play.


HOW IT HAPPENED


The Cardinals came out and initiated physical play right off the first touch, setting up opportunities to threaten the Lady Lion Defense. UIW's line recorded 15 total shots on the game.


With four seconds left in the first half, a penalty kick opportunity for UIW allowed Keeley Ayala a chance to step up to the line. Winding up for the shot, Ayala booted the ball to the top of the net to secure the first and only goal of the half, leaving the period with a 1-0 Cardinals' advantage.


This penalty kick marked the second game in a row that Ayala attempted, and scored in, a penalty kick opportunity (also against TAMUCC on Sept. 20 for the game-winning goal). She has amassed all of the team's total penalty goals (3) on the season.


In the second half, the Cardinals stepped up their defensive strategy to clear the ball toward their offensive line, including quick ball movement around Lady Lions. This tough defense protected goalkeeper Cailey Croson, who also took matters into her own hands on multiple occasions, charging the box and punching Lady Lion shots away. She ended regulation with six saves on the match as she tallied her third shutout of the season.


The Lady Lions could not net the ball within the second period, thus ending the game and securing UIW's 1-0 win. The Cardinals improve their season standing to 3-6 (2-0 SLC).


UP NEXT

The Cardinals stay in Louisiana for the weekend to face Nicholls State University in a Sunday matchup. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. (CT).

FOLLOW ALONG

For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics.

Follow the team on Twitter @UIWWomensSoccer and on Instagram @uiwwsoccer.