Box Score

CANYON, Texas — “The biggest win in the history of the program.” That's how fourth-year Fort Lewis College women's soccer head coach Damian Clarke described a 1-0 road victory over No. 4 West Texas A&M last night at The Pitch.

“The girls were honestly playing at a different level. They were very, very good,” he said. “I don't know if I've ever seen a Fort Lewis team play as well from front to back. It was unbelievable.”

The victory marked the third straight shutout for senior goalkeeper Christine Schmelzle, who was chosen as the RMAC Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday. “This was the best I've seen Cricket play in quite some time. She was special today.”

Schmelzle made six saves in the match, which saw the No. 14 Skyhawks improve to 3-0-0 overall. She received quite a bit of help from her defense, too.

“The back four were absolutely fantastic,” said Clarke. Nicole Schumacher made her collegiate debut after sitting out last weekend with a concussion. He also cited the play of Madison Glantz. “She was big time.”

After a scoreless first half, the Skyhawks struck midway through the second as junior forward Hayley Hollenga scored her second game-winner in as many matches with a one-on-one move from six yards out.

Sophomore midfielder Elena Benevides set up Hollenga with a pass over the top.

“Elena basically chipped the ball over the back four and Haley ran onto it, had a collision with the goaltender and knocked it in,” said Clarke.

The 1-0 final score between the two NSCAA Top 25 teams was as close as the score indicated. Shots were even at nine apiece, with the Buffs owning a slight, 6-5 advantage in shots on goal. Kelly Skehan made four saves for WTAMU (2-1-0).

Hollenga led FLC with four shots (three on goal), while Schumacher launched two shots.

Fort Lewis concludes its road trip at 1 p.m. Sunday when it faces Eastern New Mexico (1-1-0 overall).