AMES — The Iowa State women’s soccer team prepares to take on Brigham Young University (BYU) following a 0-0 tie against Utah. Head coach Matt Fannon is searching for his second win in conference play this season after previously defeating Kansas.

“It feels like we haven’t gotten the results we’ve been looking for,” Fannon said. “We’re frustrated that we haven’t gotten more, but in a very positive way.”

The matchup Monday will mark game two of the Cyclones’ road trip to Utah. Both matchups will feature competitive conference play and opportunities to pull ahead in Big 12 conference play.

“We’ve been working hard to put ourselves in a place where the women are making decisions on the field,” Fannon said. “We’ve put our foot down in the last 15 minutes and imposed our will on the game a bit more.”

Iowa State currently ranks ninth in the conference ahead of Oklahoma State and Arizona State. They trail first-place West Virginia by eight points after playing in contention for the lead a week prior. 

“We’ve got enough leaders on the field now that it’s in their hands, and they feel good about it,” Fannon said. “We know that we’ve got two dangerous teams this week, but as long as the women keep playing the same we could get something on the road.”

Iowa State goalkeeper Avery Gillahan is expected to have her hands full again against a shot-heavy team in BYU. The Cougars average 6.4 shots in the first period, but the Cyclones’ lack of defense in the first half of their matchups could result in an above-average performance. 

Strong defense will play a key role in whether or not Iowa State breaks through and finds the back of the net. 

The game will take place at 7 p.m. Monday in Provo, Utah. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.