Tremendous changes happened in the standings this week as Idaho took a heartbreaking, and controversial, 1-0 loss to Northern Arizona, paving the way for Portland State to take first place in the Big Sky.
The Vandals come in struggling offensively. This is what caused the loss last game, so getting on the scoreboard early will be crucial for the Vandals.
Idaho is led by junior forward Maddy Lasher. She is coming into the game with three goals and four assists this season. Other key players for the Vandals include sophomore forward Annika Farley, who transferred from Portland State, and freshman goalkeeper Kira Witte. Farley has two goals while Witte has 56 saves and 11 shutouts so far this.
Portland State is led by sophomore midfielder Abi Hoffman with four goals and one assist. Alongside Hoffman is junior forward Raniyah Burton has three goals.
The Vandals have only allowed eight goals in 13 games. Seven of which came against San Diego State on Aug. 21. The other came last game against NAU.Scoring on the Vandals has proven to be a tough job whereas Portland State has allowed 22 goals and struggled defensively.
The Vandals will have to be on their ‘A game’ and pressure Portland State. This game will be an interesting one and it is a battle for first place, which will be huge going into the Big Sky Conference Tournament in a couple weeks.
Portland State is an aggressive team, committing 135 fouls on the season and picking up 18 yellow cards, Idaho hasn’t done much better, committing 116 fouls and surrendering 9 yellow cards.
The midfield is a key piece to any game, and this game is no different. Idaho has a strong midfield, and they need to show it if they are going to win and take back first place from Portland State.
The battle for first place will kick off in the Kibbie Dome at 6 p.m. tommorow,
Jayden Barfuss can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @JaydenBarfuss10