(September 3, 2023) Mena, Arkansas - Coming off their first region win of the season, the ladies of Bucks Soccer had a tough challenge ahead on Sunday afternoon, facing the Eastern Oklahoma State Mountaineers. The Bucks entere the match at 2-1-0 on the young season and were 1-1-0 in region play. Eastern took both games from the Bucks last season.
Under blue skies and in perfect conditions, UARM took to the field knowing they had a big challenge ahead of them. Playing against a well-established program would be difficult enough, but playing with low numbers due to injuries just made the challenge even more of a difficult one to overcome. Limiting the mistakes in the defensive line and taking any opportunities that fall to the feet of the attackers would be key factors today. UARM defended well as a team and kept the game to 0-0 going into half time.
With no subs available to come into the game, the UARM squad started to feel the pace of the game. The players became overwhelmed with exhaustion which enabled Eastern the chance to dominate possession and the game. Two goals were scored off a dribble in the 48th minute and from a corner kick in the 60th minute. The ladies had one or two break aways to try to get back into the game, but the ball went past the post each time from the shots taken. The Bucks fell 2-0 to Eastern.
Coach Sherry was upbeat after the match, "Overall it was a good team effort and the players learned a lot by playing such a high level team. These lessons will be be valuable for us moving forward."
The ladies return to action on Wednesday, September 6th, at home against National Park College. It is the last non-region game of the season for the Bucks. Region play resumes on Sunday, September 10th, against Northeastern Oklahoma A&M at home.
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