The Cyclones faced the University of Utah for the first time, resulting in a 0–0 stalemate, marking this their third draw of the season.
Iowa State traveled to Salt Lake City to compete against the Utes in its fourth Big 12 matchup after a 1-0 loss against No. 21 Colorado on Sunday. This game marks its fourth away game this season and second in the conference.
Iowa State’s newfound confidence on offense
The Cyclones started off strong in the first half, taking possession of the ball quickly and effectively creating clean passes and effective mobility within their plays.
Iowa State was able to quickly build its momentum in the first half as redshirt sophomore Jordyn Herrera took the first shot on goal in the third minute of the game.
The offense only got better from there, as the Cyclones ended the first half with six shots on goal compared to Utah’s four.
Although the second half was less impressive offensively, Iowa State was still able to maneuver past the Utes’ aggressive defense, and effectively compete in one-on-one matchups between players. The game ended with both teams having 10 shots on goal.
The Cyclones’ defense comes in the clutch in the second half
Coming into the second half with a 0-0 draw, Iowa State played with a more defensive approach, focusing less on offense.
Keeping Utah on its toes, the Cyclones played more compactly leaving the Utes with very little space to pass and move the ball. Iowa State applied more aggressive pressure on Utah by getting them to move the ball out of play or into the hands of the opposition.
The Cyclones made a team effort in blocking goals, by having multiple interferences throughout the second half against the Utes’ six attempted goals.
Junior defender Isabella Agrusso and sophomore defender Ella Zimmerman played all 90 minutes of the game and were both efficient when faced with one-on-one battles against Utah forward Taliana Kaufusi and sophomore midfielder Lilliah Blum.
Iowa State goalkeeper Avery Gillahan also held her own as she impressively blocked every shot that was thrown her way this game, as the Utes were well-poised with the ball. Gillahan ended the game with a total of four saves.
In the last 10 minutes, both teams amped up their aggression and took away many fouls and yellow cards. The Cyclones secured an ending total of 10 fouls and two yellow cards due to unsporting.
