The St. Edward's women's soccer team advanced past Central Oklahoma in penalty kicks, 5-4 on Friday night at Benson Stadium in round one action of the NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Championship.
St. Edward's (15-3-1) nearly took the lead in the second minute after sophomore Brianna Hinnenkamp placed a shot from inside the box and just over the crossbar.
Central Oklahoma (14-6-2) was awarded a free kick just one yard outside of the box. The shot was met with a diving save by sophomore goalkeeper Claire Tilton.
The Hilltoppers maintained possession for the majority of the first half yet were unable to place one behind the net after three saves by Broncho goalkeeper Megan Riley. The score remained even at 0-0.
In the second half, the Hilltoppers continued their offensive pressure with two shots off of the post. A shot 25 yards out by senior Kim Abbott was just saved by Riley. The Bronco had a goal scoring opportunity after a mishandled cross caused some confusion in the Hilltopper box yet it was cleared by junior Kelly Boyd. The Bronchos were unable to formulate any other attacks in the half. Despite placing 12 shots in the second half, the Hilltoppers were unable to take the lead which resulted in the match continuing to overtime action.
In overtime play junior Janae Averett looked to score the golden goal in the final minute of play, yet the ball would just hit the crossbar.
In penalty-kicks, Tilton was able to block two of the Broncho attempts. The final attempt would come by way of Abbott for the victory.
The Hilltoppers outshot the Bronchos 21-7. The Hilltoppers totaled nine corner kicks to the Bronchos one.
The Hilltoppers will be back in action Sunday as they take on the Regional host Incarnate Word at Benson Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.