Indiana University’s women’s soccer squad wrapped up its preseason schedule with a 1‑1 stalemate against the University of Dayton, a result that was settled by a five‑player penalty shootout that finished 3‑3.
The Hoosiers came out firing, registering 15 attempts on goal and forcing four early saves inside the first 20 minutes, but it was Dayton’s freshman forward Reese Gallagher who broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, slotting the ball past the keeper to give the visitors a 1‑0 lead.
Strategic Adjustments at Halftime
Head coach Josh Rife altered the team’s approach after the break, emphasizing tighter control of tempo and sustained pressure in Dayton’s half, a tactical shift that set the stage for a more balanced second half.
Penalty Shootout Highlights
The shootout saw junior midfielder Maggie Ledwith and senior midfielder Krista Murphy convert their chances to open a 2‑0 advantage for Indiana, before sophomore defender Grace Hamm extended the lead to 3‑1. In goal, goalkeeper Kendell Williams made two crucial saves, while Dayton’s keeper Casey Cannistraro was tested by the Hoosiers’ relentless spot‑kicks.
Coach Rife praised the team’s composure under pressure, noting that the ability to execute under the shootout’s intensity was a bright spot, even as he pointed to a need for sharper finishing in open play.
The preseason concludes with a home opener against Hampton University scheduled for August 12 at Yeagley Field, kickoff set for 8 p.m., offering the Hoosiers a fresh test as they move toward the regular season.