WOMEN’S SOCCER

A one-hour lightning delay set the stage for Saturday night’s matchup at King Stadium, where the Huntington women’s soccer team dropped a 4-1 decision to Olivet Nazarene in the first meeting between the two programs since 2007. The loss halts HU’s four-game winning streak and drops their record to 4-2 on the season.

ONU struck first in the 34th minute and never looked back, tacking on three more goals early in the second half to take full control. The Foresters, however, showed grit to the final whistle. With just over 10 minutes to play on a free kick, Ellie Cirrincione’s shot deflected right in front of net where Jade Mia Lee found herself in the right spot at the right time, punching in her first goal in Forester green to spoil the shutout.

This was a tough loss no doubt,” said Coach Keaton Albert. “The game is the best teacher, even more so when you lose. Playing against an ONU side who is perennially at the top of their conference only gives us a perfect picture of our own conference games to come.

“Adversity strikes on nights like this but is also the fuel we need in order to grown and build strength. We are choosing to be positive and will come out better prepared for the next matches ahead.”

The Tigers held a 12-6 shot advantage and capitalized on their pressure, while HU keeper Macie Sanders collected five saves in the effort. The Foresters now turn their attention to a short midweek road trip, traveling to Manchester on Wednesday for a 4:00 p.m. kickoff.