The Emory University women’s soccer team stepped into Homecoming and Family Weekend with an undefeated record and a No. 1 national ranking. The Eagles took on top opponents in No. 3-ranked University of Chicago (UChicago) and No. 2 Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), in front of families and hyped home crowds.
On Oct. 24, the Eagles secured a 1-0 victory over UChicago, extending their unbeaten streak to 15 consecutive games — the third-longest streak in team history. Emory’s lone goal came from junior forward Katie Hungness in the 39th minute on an assist from junior forward Zia Tomlin.
As the second half progressed, the game was dependent on the defense’s composure and aggression. Emory’s back line repeatedly cleared dangerous balls, enabling the rest of the team to hold possession. Senior goalkeeper Sophia Garcia was a key component of the strong defense, as was junior defender Jessica Nastasi, who had a sliding save in the 62nd minute. The back line’s discipline was ultimately what allowed Emory to keep a clean sheet and hand UChicago their first loss of the season.
Head coach Sue Patberg emphasized that winning the game took a lot of “grit,” especially given the challenging competition.
“It was our first time that we played an opponent that really challenged us,” Patberg said. “Nobody had given us that kind of challenge yet, and so it took everything we had to hold on to that 1-0 lead.”
On Oct. 26, the Eagles returned to the field for Senior Day against No. 2 WashU. After falling behind 1-0 in the first half, Emory responded with energy just over a minute and a half into the second half, scoring the equalizer when junior forward Kaitlyn Nimmer scored off an interception and assist from freshman midfielder Sophia Asiain. The Georgia native, Asiain, said that moment motivated her throughout the game and will continue to motivate her in the future.
“It felt good to assist the goal that we had,” Asiain said. “It’s good to have the opportunity to even be on the field and to be able to create something for the team. That’s what keeps me motivated and helps me for the next game, to remember that I can do it.”
WashU scored late to win the game 2-1, handing Emory their first loss of the season. Despite the loss, junior midfielder and defender Madison Teng said she was proud of the team’s performance and believes they can beat WashU in a future matchup.
“It wasn’t the result that we wanted, but overall we played really well,” Teng said. “We were definitely better than them, and if we do play them again, there’s a really good chance that we would beat them.”
Similarly, Patberg emphasized the confidence she has in the team and said they have shifted their focus to setting themselves up for the postseason.
“We can play with anyone in the country,” Patberg said.
Although no longer undefeated, the Eagles remain in a strong position at No. 2 in the country with an overall record of 14-1-1.
Looking ahead, the Eagles will wrap up their regular season by taking on one more UAA opponent, No. 15 University of Rochester (N.Y.), on Nov. 8.
