November 1, 2015-Needing at least a tie to continue to the MIAA Tournament, the Emporia State soccer team fell 2-1 to Neb.-Kearney in the final regular season match of the year at the EHS Pitch. Despite the loss the Hornets finish the season 9-8-1 and record their third straight non-losing season for the first time in school history.
The Lopers scored in the 33rd minute when Kadie Walaszczyk was awarded a penalty kick and her shot inched by a diving Yadira Rivera in goal. The Hornets answered less than four minutes later. Tiffany Jones put the ball in off a rebound from an Amelie Heun header right in front of the goal as the teams went to the half tied at 1-1.
The Hornets had a great shot at taking the lead in the 53rd minute when Maria Walden's shot hit the post and Jones nearly put the rebound in but was blocked in front of the goal.
Walasczcyk gave UNK the lead with 6:11 left when she took a pass from Carly Brown on a break away and shot into the opposite corner from the right side.
Emporia State outshot Neb.-Kearney 19-18, however the Lopers had 14 shots on goal compared to just eight for the Hornets. Rivera ended the match with a season high 12 saves for Emporia State.
With the loss the Hornets will end the season 9-8-1 which is the second best winning percentage in school history. Emporia State outscored their opponents 33-22 on the season as seven of their eight losses were by one goal, while all nine of their wins were by at least two goal.
Emporia State recognized two seniors prior to the match and have ten of their 11 starters slated to return next season.
