by Miami Ohio kicked off the first game of the fall season against Central Michigan. This was an anticipated event at Bobby Kramig Field due to the RedHawks beating the Chippewas 3-0 in the 2022 season.
The stadium was filled with enthusiastic women soccer supporters from both Central Michigan, along with Miami fans. Including almost 300 people in attendance.
The RedHawks initiated the first 45 minutes with a demonstration of solid teamwork, effectively impeding the Chippewas’ advances.
From the beginning, it was clear that this game would be one of the most aggressive ones of the season.
In the first 5 minutes a yellow card was called on Chippewa Junior Jocelin Zimmerer (#12). As well as a second yellow card in the following 10 minutes. By Junior Brooke Carroll (#32) another Chippewa player. Both of these calls lead to RedHawks hitting the ground intensely in the first half.
RedHawk goalie Dominique Popa (#1) a Freshman asserted her position with determination, facing a barrage of 6 shots from Chippewa players throughout the first half. She exhibited exceptional skill, stopping each attempt to keep her team’s net secure.
In the last 10 minutes of the first half a shot by Freshman Kayla Perfect (#9) came close to hitting the back of the net but was saved by Chippewa goalie Junior Allison LaPoint (#34).
The Redhawks and Chippewas engaged in a tightly contested first half, demonstrating their equal footing on the field. As the halftime whistle blew, the score remained deadlocked at 0-0, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
Jess Kodiak, a distinguished former RedHawk, received a well-deserved tribute for her achievements in women’s soccer. The crowd celebrated her career, which featured prestigious history such as All-American honors and the coveted title of 2012 MAC Player of the Year.
Kodiak’s enduring support for her future Redhawks was also acknowledged, cementing her legacy as a true champion and a source of inspiration for the team.
As the second half resumed, Chippewas came in hot. In the first four minutes Junior Cece Mernatti (#3) assisted a goal shot by Junior Jenna Little (#7).
As Central Michigan fans cheered for their lead against Miami, the RedHawk players took this time to attempt to make this game even.
Immediately after Little’s (#7) shot the Redhawks rushed the ball back over and went in for a shot with unwavering determination, saved yet again by Allison LaPoint (#34).
With the score at 1- 0 and the adrenaline surging through the Chippewas’ ranks, Jenna Little (#7) swiftly reached the net again, securing her second goal of the game. Her exceptional performance was further supported by Lauren Walker’s (#2).
In the closing 20 minutes of the second half, the RedHawks were fighting for their victory. Putting in the effort Taylor Hamlett (#32) launched three attempts at the goal.
It was on her fourth shot that she found the mark, clinching the Redhawks’ first goal of the game.
As the final whistle blew across the field, the Redhawks launched three determined shot attempts directly at the Chippewas’ goal to tie the game.
However, the Chippewas’ unwavering goalie proved to be an impenetrable fortress, saving every single shot and securing her team’s hard-fought victory, with the game concluding at 2-1. A massive win for Central Michigan.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Miami’s record now stands at 3 wins, 6 loses and a tie, reflecting their ongoing efforts to improve their performance.
On the other hand, Central Michigan has shown progress with a record of 2 wins, 2 loses and 3 ties, demonstrating their ability to compete and achieve more favorable results as the season unfolds.
Picture credits by Brian Mack
