Marion, Ind. – The No. 1 seeded Central Methodist women's soccer team secured a spot at the final site of the NAIA National Tournament after defeating No. 2 Indiana Wesleyan in the Opening Round Championship by a final score of 2-0 Saturday evening in Marion, Ind.
The Eagles improve to a 20-3 while the Wildcats conclude their season with a 10-3-3 overall record.
The Eagles started with a high pace and were able to grab an early lead. Central's first goal came in the sixth minute with Sara Cobollo crossing the ball into the box where Andrea Villar was waiting. Villar then headed the ball into the back of the net to give CMU a 1-0 lead early on.
Central extended their lead to 2-0 after Maria Cervello found Anika Kallash free between the defense, who then fired the ball past the keeper. The Eagles finished the first 45 minutes of play with eight shots compared to four for the Wildcats.
The Eagles continued to control possession in the second half. Indiana Wesleyan had some dangerous opportunities, but Central's defense was able to contain any attempts made by the opposition. Both teams were scoreless in the second half as the Eagles secured their 20th win of the season and a trip to Foley, Alabama.
Central finished the game with 16 shots with 10 being on goal. Kallash and Villar led the team with three shots and one finding the back of the net for each. Cervello, Sandra Jakobsen, and Nely Martinez each added two shots with one being on frame. Aina Cantero and Sara Cobollo each took one attempt. Cobollo and Cervello both collected an assist.
Sheila Sanchez played a full game in goal recording three saves.
CMU will now travel to Foley, Alabama, where they are the No. 8 seed and are set to play against No. 9 seed John Brown for the first round of the NAIA National Tournament. The game is set for Tuesday, April 27 at 4:00 p.m.
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