| Junior Veronica Najera's 16th career goal was the game winner on Friday night. |
HOUSTON ?
Junior forward Veronica Najera scored the game-winning goal indouble overtime to give UTSA a 1-0 victory at Houston on Friday night in its season opener.
“It was a great match, but at times a little stressful.”UTSA head coach Steve Ballard said. “Our girls played very well as the gamekept going. It was a great win for us, especially opening the season on the roadagainst a good team.”
The Cougars (0-1) had several opportunities in the secondhalf to take the lead, but senior goalkeeper Rachel Francis was huge, as she recorded three key saves.Lauri Byrne had a chance to give Houston the win in the 63rdminute, but Francis kept the ball from going into the net.
The Roadrunners also hada chance to win in regulation, but Najera’s attempt sailed over the crossbar with lessthan 10 seconds remaining.
In the first overtime, Jessica Zavalza could have given Houston the win, butFrancis again came up big to keep it scoreless.
In the second overtime, freshman Katie Dugan took advantageof a bad pass by the Cougars and was able to find Najera inside the box and putit past Houston’sgoalie in the 101st minute to give the Roadrunners the victory.
Francis tallied a match-best seven saves on the night, whileNajera recorded six shots.
UTSA returns to action on Sunday at Rice. Kickoffis slated for 1 p.m.