By Charles Hamaker
Seattle, WA – The University of Washington men’s soccer team remained unbeaten on the season through five matches, due to a draw with Air Force. The Huskies were able to put plenty of shots on net, but only one of twelve found the back of the net. Washington had an opportunity to extend their lead right after halftime, but the Huskies could not convert a penalty. The nationally third ranked Huskies remain unbeaten, but surely feel they left a win on the table.
Ilijah Paul put up the only goal for Washington (Photo by Melissa Levin)
Plenty of attempts, but only one finds the mark
The third ranked Washington team put up similar attempts towards net as they have all season, the Huskies just simply did not have an efficient day in terms of shots on net. The lone goal for the Huskies came from Ilijah Paul, who has been stellar to begin this 2022 season. In the second minute of the match, Chris Meyers whipped a ball in towards Paul, who hammered a header home.
Washington tallied 19 shots and six corner kicks. The Huskies only put three of those 19 shots on target, and Air Force only recorded one save on the night. While that number of shots is fine, the Huskies have to be much better at getting their shots on target, let alone converting them. All of these factors could be considered fine, had it not been for a late equalizer in the waning minutes of this match.
Air Force celebrates its goal in the 88th minute (Photo by Melissa Levin)
Defense lets one in
The Husky defense has been solid to begin the season, only allowing three total goals including this match. The backline has remained strong, with a few mistakes finding their way into goals. In the 88th minute, Thaddaeus Dewing scores the equalizer via assist from Remi Smith. Holding on for dear life, the Huskies mistake of the day ultimately was their down fall. While it isn’t a loss, again, this is a match you should win.
Chris Meyers recorded an assist on the night (Photo by Melissa Levin)
Cause for concern?
While it’s early in the season, this is a frustrating result that Washington should learn and build from. The Huskies attack needs to be more clinical and efficient. Whether it was Air Force living up to the occasion against a top team in the country or your own doing, you need to be better. With several talented programs in your own conference, paging Oregon State, the Huskies need to sharpen up before their conference schedule.
What’s next?
Washington’s next matchup comes on Friday, September 16th against Michigan State. The third ranked Huskies will host the unranked Spartans on “80’s” themed night, with a 7PM PST kickoff time at Husky soccer field.
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