Utah Falls to #19 Utah State

SALT LAKE CITY – The University of Utah suffered its first loss of the season, 2-0, against #19 Utah State on Wednesday Night at Ute Field.
 
The Utes (1-1-1) and Aggies (4-0) fought back and forth for a scoreless first half, with Utah getting a slow start with one shot to Utah State’s 4.
 
Two saves by junior goalkeeper Kasey Wardle in the 32^nd and 38^th minute kept the game leveled at zero.
 
Graduate forward Taliana Kaufusi had the opportunity for a goal in the 56^th minute, but shot high to send her shot off-target.
 
“It was a tough result tonight,” said head coach Hideki Nakada. “Both teams had limited amount of opportunities and Utah State capitalized on theirs, but we unfortunately couldn’t come through on ours.”
 
The Aggies scored their first goal of the night in the 58^th minute, with a shot from sophomore midfielder Summer Diamond.
 
Taking control of the ball just minutes later, Aggie’s graduate midfielder Alex Day hit the back of the net in the 62^nd minute, thanks to a throw-in from graduate defender Kylie Olsen.
 
“We switched off on two of their throw ins, which ultimately led to both goals,” said Nakada. “We needed to be better in those moments because these tight games come down to the little details.”
 
The Utes fought hard to close the deficit, but ultimately fell short.  
 
“It’s going to be important to have a strong response on Sunday, so we will work hard  to get ready for Weber State starting first thing tomorrow…