Gisselle Kozarski’s 42nd minute volley was all Texas Tech needed to capture their first victory of the season as the Red Raiders defense would pitch a shutout to knock off Iowa State, 1-0, on a chilly night in Lubbock.
The Red Raiders were the dominant team from start to finish, leading the Cyclones in the shots on goal category, 7-0. However, Kozarski’s goal came against the run of play.
In the 38th minute, Iowa State forward Courtney Powell sent a header inches wide of the right post, almost giving the Cyclones the early advantage. Iowa State would build off that momentum by knocking on the Red Raiders’ door for the ensuing few minutes.
It was a counter-attack that got the scoring opportunity started for the Red Raiders. Senior Kirsten Davis sent a cross in from the corner that initially deflected off Iowa State midfielder Meghan Carl. The ball fell to her teammate Taylor Bee whose attempt to clear the ball only made it as far as Kozarski who used her left to give Tech their first lead of the season.
Being Senior Night, Kozarski dedicated the goal to the squad’s most experienced players.
“I wanted to make a difference,” Kozarski said. “As a freshman I wanted it to feel special for them and get the win.”
Senior Night
Before the game, Texas Tech honored senior outside backs Amanda Porter and Macy Hairgrove for their storied careers in Lubbock.
It is worth noting the team’s other five seniors, Kirsten Davis, Margaret Begley, Luana Munoz, Jordie Harr, and Jade King, did not partake in the Senior Night festivities. Earlier in the season, the NCAA granted all fall sport athletes with an extra year of eligibility.
Whatever it Takes
Coach Tom Stone said it was huge to get win number one out of the way, saying one word to describe the game could be “relief.”
“Today’s motto was ‘whatever it takes,’” said Stone.
Up Next
Texas Tech will go back to the road to face their fourth ranked squad of the season, as they head to Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Friday. Awaiting the Red Raiders will be the reigning Big 12 champions, Oklahoma State Cowgirls, in a game Coach Stone said the motto will be “whatever it takes, plus.”
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