September 21, 2018- Emporia State emerged victorious over Nebraska Kearney after the Hornets second half goal gave them a 1-0 lead over the Lopers. The Hornets advance to 5-1-1 on the season for the best start through seven games since 2005 when the Hornets were 4-1-2.
The Hornets came out firing in the first half taking 13 shots while only allowing the Lopers three. In the 16 shots in the first half, neither team was able to take the lead and the match remained tied 0-0 heading to half. In the second half, the Hornets continued the attack as they out-shot the Lopers 13-6 in the half. Just over 20 minutes into the half, Tanna Benefiel lined up for a free kick from 40 yards out on the right side. The shot was blocked and rebounded by teammate Shelby Keyes who sent a shot into the back of the net from 5 yards out to give the Hornets the lead 1-0 in the 67th minute of the match. The Hornets defense was able to hold on through the remaining minutes to achieve the fourth shut-out of the season.
The Hornets were led by Shelby Keyes with one goal on four shots and Tanna Benefiel with one assist. Benefiel took five shots in the match followed by Keyes and Aislinn Hughes with four shots each. Jacki Martinek and Rachel Marshall took two shots each while seven Hornets players each took one shot in the match.
The Hornets will be back in action on Sunday, September 23 as they open MIAA conference play in a rematch from just a week ago against Fort Hays State at the ESU Pitch.
