Benney Koch, Staff Writer
VCU women’s soccer tied 0-0 against Loyola University Chicago and snapped their six-game losing streak on Sunday at the VCU Athletic Village in the Rams’ final home game of the season.
The Rams battled Loyola Chicago through a back-and-forth contest, with both teams finding opportunities in the midfield but struggling to turn their attacking runs into goals.
Fourth-year goalkeeper Mia Pongratz helped preserve the draw with four saves, posting her second shutout of the season. The performance brought her career total to 119 saves, moving her into 10th place in VCU women’s soccer program history.
“It just means a lot to me that I was able to give a lot back to a program that’s given so much to me these past four years,” Pongratz said. “I’m very, very proud to do it with this team too.”
Loyola Chicago tested Pongratz early, forcing a save in the fourth minute. The Ramblers outshot VCU 8-5 in the first half, but the Rams held firm defensively to enter the break scoreless.
VCU found more success in creating opportunities after halftime, putting three shots on goal in the final 10 minutes. However, fourth-year Loyola Chicago goalkeeper Allison Deardorff kept the Rams off the scoreboard with four second-half saves.
The match all came down to the dramatic 90th minute when Loyola Chicago was awarded a penalty kick following a video review. The Ramblers attempt sailed wide, allowing VCU to stave off a loss in their home finale.
VCU head coach Laryn Hutchinson said the team’s defensive adjustments played an important role in the result. VCU switched to a 5-4-1 formation to counter Loyola Chicago’s speed on the wings, a change Hutchinson said worked well for the Rams and one that will continue to be worked on in the upcoming offseason.
“It did work today for us,” Hutchinson said. “It’s definitely something to look forward to for the future.”
As the season approaches its conclusion, Pongratz said the team has emphasized enjoying their remaining moments together, particularly for the senior class.
“Don’t take any moment for granted because it really just goes by in a flash,” Pongratz said.
The Rams will close out their season on the road against Dayton at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.