Story by NU Athletic Communications
Senior Eleanor Dale scored twice in the first half as the Nebraska soccer team recorded its second-straight shutout with the 4-0 victory over Kansas State on Sunday evening.
Today’s win marks the first time since 2000 that the Huskers are undefeated through the first six games of the season, and the 22 goals combined to start the season ties for the most since 2011.
Senior goalie Sami Hauk recorded six saves, as she combined with Cece Villa (one save) for the Huskers’ third shutout victory in six contests. With the win, NU improved to 5-0-1, while the Wildcats fell to 2-2-2.
The Big Red took control early against the Wildcats, as Dale, the Big Ten leader in goals, netted her seventh and eighth finishes of the season and third-straight game with a brace. In the 15th minute, junior Sarah Weber headed a cross from Jordan Zade, which was saved by the Kansas State goalie, rebounded by Dale and shot into the back of the net. Then in the 28th minute, Abbey Schwarz shot a pass across the pitch into the penalty box, which Dale met and sent past the diving Wildcat goalie for the score and the 2-0 advantage.
NU continued its strong offensive attack and tallied two more goals to take a commanding 4-0 lead into the break. In the 35th minute, Husker junior forward Maggie Altman came off the bench and netted her first career goal of a pass from Sadie Waite, marking her second career assist. Five minutes later, Weber headed a cross from Altman into the net for her second finish of the season and 18th career.
Both teams were scoreless in the second half, but the Huskers held the advantage in shots (13-6) and corners (8-1).
In all, the Huskers outshot the Wildcats (30-14), and led in shots on goal (11-7) and corners (11-2).
Up next, NU returns to action Thursday, Sept. 7, when the Huskers host UC Davis. Action is slated to begin at 7:05 p.m. CT and will air on BIG+.