Vandy falls in double overtime to NKU

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Vanderbilt soccer team fell in its final non-conference game in a double overtime nail biter, as Northern Kentucky slipped past the ‘Dores for a 1-0 victory.

“I’m disappointed to lose,” said head coach Darren Ambrose. “We have our chances and we just don’t take them. When our moments in the 18-yard box have come up, we haven’t done a great job at finishing chances end of story. Great chances against any team, you have to put them away. We make mistakes in key moments and key areas of the game.”

Heading into the final non-conference matchup of the season, Vanderbilt changed up personnel to try to generate the scoring possibilities and finishes the team has been searching for all season. In doing so, Sasha Gray was moved to forwards from defense, with Sydney O’Donnell taking her spot in the backline with her first start at left back.

Throughout the first half, both teams had scoring opportunities, but lacked the finishing touch necessary to establish a lead. NKU defense pressured the VU front line, making strong tackles and forcing the ‘Dores to pass the ball. At the end of the first 45 minutes of play the Norse led the Dores in shooting with five shots on VU’s two.

In the second half, again both teams lacked ability to finish, with multiple shots sailing high or hitting off the cross bar. As time expired, the ‘Dores were sent to their second overtime contest of the season. While Vandy generated three shots in the first 10 minutes of OT, both teams donning the gold and white finished the first period scoreless, still looking to claim the victory.

With Vandy missing a tackle on the right side of the field, NKU’s No. 12, Jessica Ferry, dribbled into the 18-yard box and generated a shot which sailed into in the bottom of the left of the corner for the game winning goal.

The Commodores will resume SEC play this Sunday, Sept. 18th, traveling to Starkville, Miss. to face the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Kickoff is at 2:00 pm CT, with action on ESPNU.