Box Score
Santa Cruz, CA – The Academy of Art University women traveled to play a non-conference game against UC Santa Cruz on Saturday afternoon. The Urban Knights came out hot, fresh off a successful homestand the previous week. The women played hard, and their record breaking defense kept them in the game, but the Banana Slugs' offense found a way to beat the Knights; and ART U fell short with a final score of 3-1.
The Banana Slugs offense came out strong, immediately testing the Urban Knights. After an early game battle between the two teams, the Slugs scored first in the middle of the first half. ART U continued to be tested as Santa Cruz's offense remained tough. The Slugs were able to score again late in the first half to take a two goal lead heading into half time.
The Knights set the tempo at the start of the second half. Refreshed from the short break, the women's offense stepped up, relieving some of the pressure from their defense. In the 64th minute of the game, freshman Hannah Emmett scored off a pass from junior Olivia Dupon. Emmett was able to put the ball in the net over the keeper's head to get her team to within one. However, the Slug's scored their third and final goal just a minute later, and would be able to hold onto their lead for the remainder of the match.
ART U's defense played a tremendous part in keeping their team in the game. Sophomore goalie Hana Klimek recorded an impressive 13 saves on the game. Her 13 saves were a personal best for Klimek, and a school record, breaking the previous record held by Solveig Barnes. She played all 90 minutes in the game for the Knights, halting 13 of 16 shots on goal.
Emmett also had a great game for the Urban Knights. She had two shots on goal, and the solo goal for her team (her fifth of the season). Dupon also stood out as she recorded the assist, and senior Emi Sullivan had a good day with two shots on goal.
For the Banana Slugs, Roxanne Beltran did well with two shots on goal and one goal, as did Becca Hawkins who also had one shot on goal and one goal, and Elaine Stanfield who had the game winning goal for her team. Keeper Elle Vemillion put up seven saves for her team.
After the loss, the Academy of Art University's record falls to 2-9-2 overall, while UC Santa Cruz's record improves to 1-10-2 overall. The Knights return home for their next game where they will host non-conference members William Jessup. The game is set for October 22nd with kick off starting at 12:30 pm.
