Ben Martindale, Sports Editor
Drew Clements, Contributing Writer
VCU women’s soccer attempted to win their second consecutive game against Duquesne University Sunday afternoon at City Stadium, but fell short 2-1.
The Dukes started the game aggressively and attempted their first shot on goal, which was saved by the Rams fourth-year goalkeeper Mia Pongratz at the 3:37 mark of the first half.
“The beginning of our season was a little tough, but we’ve had a huge mindset switch on the team,” Pongratz said. “I think we’re all really taking initiative on changing the game for ourselves.”
Over the next 10 minutes, VCU started to gain momentum, attempting three shots, but was unable to capitalize.
As the game progressed, neither team was able to consistently impose their will on the other. At the 28:26 mark of the first half, the Dukes scored to take a 1-0 lead.
VCU battled back and stayed aggressive, attempting five more shots over the remainder of the half, but was unable to convert. Duquesne entered halftime holding a 1-0 lead.
In the second half, VCU continued to apply pressure and began to force Duquesne onto the back foot more frequently. The Rams attempted four shots to Duquesne’s one in the opening 15 minutes of the second half.
In the 65th minute, VCU’s offensive pressure paid off as first-year forward Monique McEnhimer tied the game up, scoring her third goal in the last two games.
“We’ve been working really hard the past few months and to be able to actually bring the results to the field is amazing,” McEnhimer said. “To be able to help my teammates by scoring and support everyone has just been amazing.”
Following the Rams’ goal, both teams ratched up their defensive pressure and neither team was able to get a clean shot on goal.
With just under six minutes remaining, an accidental handball by VCU awarded Duquesne a penalty kick.
Duquesne first-year midfielder Molly Kinsella drilled the penalty kick to give the Dukes the lead.
VCU pushed the pace over the final five minutes, almost scoring in the 87th minute, but was unable to tie the score, losing 2-1.
After the game, VCU head coach Lauryn Hutchinson emphasized the need to put together a more complete performance.
“I told them after the game, we have to put a full game model together,” Hutchinson said. “From the defensive end to the attacking end, and that’s when we’re at our best.”
The Rams will look to bounce back when they take on Saint Joseph’s University on Oct. 3 at Sweeney Field.