Aggies drop conference opener

Coming off a win against rival Utah last week, USU women’s soccer opened Mountain West play with a 1-0 loss at home to New Mexico on Friday.

“I don’t know if we were mentally prepared for it,” said Utah State head coach Heather Cairns. “Give credit to New Mexico. They wanted it more than we did today.”

Utah State struggled against the Lobo defense, as it was unable to attempt a shot in the first half. New Mexico had 10 shot attempts in the first half.

Utah State finished the game with two shots on goal. One shot came from Katie Flynn, the other from Jessica Brooksby.

New Mexico had 17 total shot opportunities in the game, compared to only six from Utah State. Ruth Bruciaga scored the lone goal of the match on a corner kick in the 76th minute of play to ensure a Lobo win.

Aggie goalkeeper Jeannie Woller had a remarkable game and kept it close for Utah State with eight saves. Woller remained upbeat about the season following the loss.

“We’re incredibly excited to come out and prove ourselves on Sunday,” Woller said. “We may not have had the best game today, but we are going to come out and play harder than anybody expects on Sunday.”

Utah State faces a quick turn-around as they face San Diego State at home on Sunday.

“Our mental and physical preparation has to be better on Sunday,” Cairns said. “We can’t just sit back and let San Diego attack us all day.”

Friday’s loss to New Mexico was the first home loss of the season for Utah State. The Aggies are now 5-4-1 overall for the season. New Mexico improved to 3-5-0 overall. The Lobos will face Boise State on Sunday.

Sunday’s home match against the San Diego State Aztecs at Chuck & Gloria Bell Field is scheduled to kick-off at 1 pm.

— bfordhamsix@gmail.com

Twitter: @bfordham6