When the Idaho women’s soccer team walked off the field following last month’s loss to Eastern Washington, the team possessed a 2-3 record and was struggling to find its rhythm.
Seven weeks later, Idaho sits atop the Big Sky standings, boasting an undefeated record in conference play.
The Vandals have also clinched the Big Sky regular-season championship and the right to host the Big Sky Tournament next week at Guy Wicks Field.
Meanwhile, the Eagles have also enjoyed a productive season. Eastern Washington is tied with Northern Colorado for second place in the Big Sky standings, and will look to cement a first-round bye in the playoffs with a win Friday against the Vandals.
Idaho will play Eastern Washington at 3 p.m. Friday at Guy Wicks Field to conclude the regular season.
“Eastern Washington is very good on the attack,” Idaho coach Derek Pittman said. “Their movement up top is very great and they are good at interchanging and attacking defenders.”
Pittman said although his team has already clinched the top seed for the playoffs, the Vandals would treat Friday’s game against the Eagles as any other regular-season game.
“We want to stick to the process and keep the routine and mentality that we have had the past few weeks,” Pittman said. “As far as the game is concerned, we want to go out and win it and play well in front of our home fans.”
Idaho freshman goalkeeper Amanda Poertner has played an instrumental role in the defensive success of the Vandals, recording a single-season record nine shutouts for Idaho.
The Vandals have also been aided by selfless offensive play, highlighted by junior midfielder Clara Gomez’s 11 assists this season.Â
Idaho will look to continue this offensive success as it attempts to avenge the September loss to the Eagles in Cheney, Washington.
“We know the mistakes that led to their goals that day, and we’ve cleaned up those errors,” Pittman said. “I have no doubt that they will throw a few wrinkles at us that we haven’t seen yet and we need to be prepared for that.”
Friday’s game is Senior Day for Idaho and the Vandals will honor senior forward Reagan Quigley in her final regular-season appearance for the Vandals.
Idaho’s lone senior has played in 16 games this season, recording a 57.1 shots-on-goal percentage.
“Quigley has given so much to this program and has been a tremendous example to our younger players,” Pittman said. “The team is excited for the chance to honor her efforts and contributions to the program during the past four years.”
Idaho plans to honor Quigley during a pregame ceremony that will take place just before kickoff.
Josh Grissom can be reached at [email protected]