Aggies, Utes tie 1–1 in first night game at Bell Field
In front of a record 2,027 fans, Utah State women’s soccer played the first-ever night match at Chuck & Gloria Bell Soccer Field under newly installed lights, earning a hard-fought 1–1 draw with in-state rival Utah.
The Aggies jumped on the lead in the 27th minute when sophomore forward Ellie Hendrix scored on a rebound from a free kick. Hendrix came off the bench in the first half and helped create multiple scoring opportunities.
“It’s so fun to play for that many people here, and you can just feel the energy, and it helps on the field a lot,” Hendrix said. “It took us a little bit to get settled, so I think getting one goal on the board really lets us just take a deep breath and remember how to play.”
Utah equalized in the 72nd minute with a near-post finish from Lilliah Blum, marking the first open-play goal the Aggies have conceded this season.
Utah State goalkeeper Taylor Rath made key saves, including one in the 49th minute on a header, while the young back line — featuring Capriel Winder, Summer Sofonia, and Carli Conner — held strong against multiple Ute corners.
Utah led with eight corners, including six in the first half, but could not convert many into quality chances.
Aggie fans are hoping for more after two consecutive ties against tough non-conference opponents, but head coach Manny Martins was encouraged by the team’s effort.
“We always play to win, but we don’t always control the result. Tonight was probably the best performance we’ve had all season — just creating chances with a team that has great attacking players, so we’re moving the needle in the right direction,” Martins said. “Unfortunately, we gave up a goal late, but I was proud to see us finish in the dying seconds with a great chance.”
Hendrix added the team is gaining confidence as the season progresses.
“Manny’s been talking about playing with personality and letting that show on the field,” she said. “Just being calm when you get the ball and being brave to take people on. I feel like overall, we did that a lot better tonight.”
Both teams registered nine shots, with Utah putting four on target and Utah State three. Utah State’s midfield, led by Rine Yonaha and Kaylie Chambers, generated several opportunities late, and substitutes including Conner helped limit Utah’s counterattacks.
Martins also noted the impact of the electrifying home crowd.
“Best student section in the country, and you don’t see this in soccer in many places,” he said. “The energy that they created here one hundred percent gives a boost to our team.”
Through four matches, Utah State holds a 1-1-2 record. USU’s defense has allowed just two goals all season, one from a penalty and one from open play, while continuing to search for more consistency in the attack.
Utah State will return to the field Saturday, Sept. 6 in Provo as they face BYU.