Despite losing itslast four games, the Ball State women's soccer team has consistently outshot their opponents but has simply failed to convert those opportunities.
Friday's loss to Miami University was no different, as the Cardinals outshot the RedHawks 16-11, yet dropped the match 3-1.
There doesn't seem to be one concrete explanation for the lack of offensive punch, and some of it may just be bad luck.
"We pressed and created opportunities but we just have to convert," coach Craig Roberts said. "Sometimes it may just come down to a couple of inches or the ball not bouncing our way."
The Cardinals brought pressure from a variety of areas and players.
Senior defenders Tina Vannatta and Danielle Rogers and senior midfielder Cortney Coombs were aggressive from the start, with each player firing a shot in the first half.
The second half brought two more shots from Vannatta and Rogers, as well as three from freshman Robyn Miley. Sophomore Sarah Orisich also nearly scored on a long run and pass, and the Cardinals managed three corner kicks.
"We just need to connect on more passes…and when we have opportunities we need to support our teammates and run with them," sophomore defender Skylar Chew said.
Ball State's lone goal came in the 67th minute on a 35-yard strike from the left side of the field from Vannatta. She nearly had a second goal from almost the same spot on a free kick minutes later, but was turned away on a one-handed tip from Miami goalkeeper Kris Gasparovic.
Gasparovic, for her part, played an excellent game for the RedHawks. Besides her athletic save on Vannatta's free kick, she also displayed toughness coming out to cover up balls and taking contact from Cardinals players.
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