(October 8, 2023) Miami, Oklahoma - Coming off a hard road loss to Eastern Oklahoma, the ladies are still fighting for a chance at the Region II Tournament at the end of the month in Enid. With 5 games remaining, the Bucks have some opportunities to fight their way into the tournament. On Sunday, the Bucks took on the Lady Norse of Northeastern Oklahoma A&M. The ladies won this season's previous match at home.
Straight from the kick off, the home crowd were determined to make it an intense atmosphere for the UARM players, but they responded with calm efficiency as they tried to execute the game plan. In only the 3rd minute of the game, Jasmin Nielsen (Aabryo, Denmark) was fouled in the penalty area, and Carla Todd (Lochgilphead, United Kingdom) converted from the penalty spot. NEO was pushed on by the crowd, and they got the equalizing goal when a long free kick sailed over the back line for the NEO striker to lob Jazmine Pacheco (Tulsa, OK) in goal.
Both teams went back and forth, and it was UARM who converted one of their chances next. Carla Todd played Jasmin Nielsen in behind the defensive line for Nielsen to receive and dribble through on goal. Her first shot was saved, but she had the poise to gather herself and finish the rebound for the go ahead goal. NEO managed to score from a penalty kick close to half time to make the game even as they entered the break.
UARM made a change at half time with Anja von Allmen (Matten, Switzerland) going into midfield and Meagan Hill (Benton, AR) going into the back line. Anja gave the UARM midfield some much needed aggression, and the result was a third goal for UARM. She found Jasmin Nielsen in space, and her shot found the corner of the net. UARM kept the pressure on NEO and forced a free kick in the 55th minute which Carla Todd converted from 30 yards out. The finishing touch to the game was given by Carla Todd who scored her hat trick goal with a one touch finish after being expertly found in the penalty area by Jasmin Nielsen. The ladies get the region win, 5-2 over NEO.
Coach Sherry was happy for his team. "The ladies battled hard in a very hostile environment and kept their focus on the game which helped to carry them over the line for the win. Carla Todd and Jasmin Nielsen led the line with great skill as usual and were ably supported by the rest of the team, particularly Kiah Bobo (Wagoner, OK) and Abbie Sunners (Liverpool, England)."
The ladies return home for an important matchup with NOC-Enid on Wednesday. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 pm at Tapley Park.
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