LAWRENCE, Kan. — Iowa State held Kansas scoreless for more than 86 minutes, but a late corner kick finally broke the Cyclones’ resistance in a 1-0 Big 12 soccer loss October 16.
Marit McLaughlin backheeled Livvy Moore’s corner kick into the net at the near post with 3:23 remaining, delivering the decisive goal after Iowa State had weathered sustained pressure throughout the evening.
The Cyclones slipped to 4-7-4 overall and 0-5-2 in conference play. Kansas improved to 11-3-1 and 5-1-1 in the Big 12.
Cyclones withstand Kansas pressure
Kansas finished with a 23-9 advantage in shots and earned all 10 of the match’s corner kicks. Iowa State goalkeeper McClenahan made nine saves to help keep the Cyclones within reach of a road result.
The Jayhawks attempted five shots in the opening 20 minutes, compared with one for Iowa State. But the Cyclones generated chances of their own, putting all four of their first-half shots on target.
Kansas goalkeeper Sophie Dawe stopped each attempt, and the teams reached halftime tied 0-0.
The Jayhawks increased the pressure immediately after the break, firing five shots in the first seven minutes. McClenahan saved three, while the other two went wide.
Iowa State’s defensive trio of Makenna Marshall, Erin Hopewell and Danica Lunceford played the entire match. Allison Charleston also went the full 90 minutes in midfield.
Late corner produces the winner
The breakthrough came at 86:37 on Kansas’ final shot and 10th corner kick of the evening.
McLaughlin redirected Moore’s delivery past a Cyclone defender and into the net for her fifth goal of the season. Moore collected her 11th assist.
Iowa State had one final opportunity from Sophie Forrester at 89:36, but the Cyclones could not produce an equalizer.
Breezie Brewer led Iowa State with three shots, including two on goal. Izzy Kapanke, Alaina Villa and Forrester each attempted two shots.
Jillian Gregorski paced Kansas with seven shots, three of them on target. Norah Jacomen added three attempts, while Dawe finished with six saves and the shutout.
Fannon praises Iowa State’s effort
“Tonight is a great example of why soccer can be a cruel game,” Iowa State coach Matt Fannon said. “We battled so incredibly well and one awkward moment cost us the match. It’s hard to ask for too much more than what we gave tonight.”
Cyclones return home to face Kansas State
Iowa State’s next scheduled opponent following the Kansas match was Kansas State, opening a three-game homestand after three straight road contests. The matchup was set for 6 p.m. with coverage on ESPN+.