The women’s soccer team began its season Aug. 27 in Oklahoma City with a game against Southern Nazarene University and another against Oklahoma Christian University Saturday.
The Wildcats lost their season opener against Southern Nazarene 2-1.
Southern Nazarene scored a quick two goals, with one goal 11 minutes into the match and another in the 16th minute.
“I think we had several opportunities, we just couldn’t capitalize on them,” junior Ashley Ukena said.
The team continued to fight throughout the game, and dominated play in the second half with a goal from senior Christine Janssens.
Overall, the Wildcats outshot Southern Nazarene 24-9, but junior Breana Hoener said that the teams lack of communication needs to improve.
“Communicating is such a big part, and we need to work on having more talking,” she said.
Baker came out with a strong midfield at Saturday’s game, resulting in a 3-0 victory against Oklahoma Christian.
“We came out and were able to really increase our possession,” head coach Nate Houser said. “I’d say possession was about 80-20.”
The Wildcats took advantage of every opportunity and were able to outshoot OCU 17-3 in the game.
Janssens once again led the attack and scored the first goal with a chip on the goalkeeper. Baker Orange staff member Jordan Dolbin scored the second goal, and Janssens finished off the game with a goal in the last minute of play.
Baker took what they learned from the previous game and used it to fix mistakes.
“Every person on the bench came in the game and helped out,” Hoener said. “Everyone had a part in the victory.”
The team is filled with experienced players such as Janssens, however many of the younger players are doing well in contributing on the field as well.
“Freshman Amber Pickering did well in her first two college games,” Houser said.
Baker had two women playing injured, and was also missing junior Alix Schiraldi, who didn’t play due to a leg injury. The team is hoping Schiraldi will be able to play by Friday’s game against Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo.
