Indiana women’s soccer narrowly escaped against Brown University amid a plethora of late opportunities for the Bears, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
The Hoosiers continue to protect their undefeated record following a 3-0 start to the season, now standing at 3-0-1.
On the stat sheet, Indiana displayed a more dominant offensive performance, taking 13 shots to Brown’s eight, and five corner kicks to Brown’s one. However, junior goalkeeper Bella Schopp was brilliant as the last defense for Brown: recording seven saves. Indiana senior goalkeeper Jamie Gerstenberg also held her own with three saves.
After staring down a 1-0 deficit following an early Brown goal, Indiana junior midfielder Olivia Rush put one in the back of the net to deadlock the match at one. The goal wasn’t just significant for the match, but for Rush as well, as it marked the first goal of her career.
Both teams had opportunities to notch the coveted second goal, including saved shots for the Hoosiers in the 69th and 71st minutes. Brown then proceeded to empty the tank, taking four of its eight shots in the last 20 minutes. Drama was abundant when the Bears attempted a shot in the 88th minute, followed by a corner kick, a second shot and a foul to give the Bears a free kick in the 89th minute. However, an offside call wasted the chance and allowed the Hoosiers to escape Rhode Island by the skin of their teeth.
The Hoosiers will look to continue their undefeated start and build off a strong 12-4-4 campaign in 2023 back at Bill Armstrong Stadium. They are set to face two non-conference opponents in the University of Evansville at 8 p.m., Thursday, and Lawrence University at 1 p.m., Sept. 8, before beginning conference play in a revamped Big Ten conference, starting with a home match against Ohio State on Sept. 12.
Follow reporters Sam Elster (@samelster1) and Matt Rudella (@mattrudellaIDS) for updates throughout the Indiana women’s soccer season.
