(Photo: Alex Roddier/WCSN)
The Arizona State Sun Devils (2-2) closed out their four-game road trip with a 19-18 loss to the San Diego State Aztecs (1-1).
This game was competitive for all 60 minutes, with both teams exchanging seven lead changes throughout the game until the Aztecs scored the game-winning goal with 24 seconds left.
The Sun Devils fought hard, opening the game up with a goal in just 30 seconds. The team continued their strong start, going up 3-0 early in the game. The Aztecs mounted a quick comeback that turned into a race with both teams putting on a performance that showcased their high-octane offenses. The Sun Devils’ efforts were ultimately not enough, as they were outshot and unable to win the majority of battles in the draw circle.
Attacker Kerri Clayton peppered the Aztecs’ net with shots, recording six goals and three assists in a career performance. This was the redshirt-senior attack’s fourth hat trick in just as many games this season. Emily Glagolev showcased why she was named the PAC-12 Offensive Player of the Week as she added two goals and found four assists in the game. Midfielder Maddy Hunter picked up her first hat trick of the season and scored a crucial free position goal with under three minutes on the clock.
Goaltender Berkeley Bonneau recorded an impressive 14 saves and game-leading eight ground balls. Bonneau also shut down the Aztecs from the arc, allowing just one goal on seven free position shots. The Sun Devils were able to capitalize better on their opportunities, going four for five off free position shots.
Despite this performance, Bonneau and the defense were unable to stop the Aztec attack, as three players from SDSU recorded a hat trick. Lexi Tan matched Clayton’s six goals and fellow attacker Camdyn O’Donnell scored the two goals to tie and then win the game within 24 seconds of each other with less than a minute on the clock.
Head coach Tim McCormack has stressed the importance of finishing games and limiting fouls. The team held a two-goal lead at halftime before surrendering 11 goals in the second period.
“We need to stay disciplined down the stretch as a couple mistakes hurt us,” McCormack said. “We will learn from this one and move forward.”
The Sun Devils split their four-game road trip to open the 2020 season. Their first home game will take place at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium on February 27 for a noon showdown against Marquette.
