Women’s soccer team defeats Millikin, 1-0, to win Albion-Olivet Cup

OLIVET, Mich. – The Olivet College women's soccer team shutout Millikin (Ill.) University, 1-0, this afternoon at the Cutler Athletic Complex in Olivet to win the Albion-Olivet Cup.

Despite a 0-0 score at halftime, the Comets had a couple good scoring opportunities in the opening 45 minutes of play. Sophomore Nicole Borek (Holt) had her shot clang off the crossbar, while sophomore Emily Chrzasz's (Livonia/Stevenson) shot on the rebound was blocked by the defense. Millikin's best chance to score came in the seventh minute when senior Jenna Mayle (Ionia) knocked the ball off a player's foot on a breakaway attempt.

Olivet broke through in the fourth minute of the second half. Senior Lindsey Winters (Plymouth/Canton) sent a pass from the middle of the field to the feet of sophomore Alexis Nichols (Lapeer/East) down the left side of the field. Nichols passed the ball to the top of the box, where freshman Kelsey Dietzen (Lansing/East Lansing) volleyed the ball high over the outstretched keeper's hands.

The Big Blue started to play more aggressive on the offensive end. They were almost awarded for their effort, but sophomore goalkeeper Deanna Zolnoski (Macomb/Henry Ford II) was up to the challenge. She made a diving save on a shot to her left side in the 72nd minute.

The Comets recorded 16 total shots in the game, with Chrzasz, Dietzken, Winters and sophomore Jeanette Fisher (Macomb/Henry Ford II) each having two. Eight others each took one. Zolnoski earned the shutout win in goal, making four saves on nine shots.

Olivet (2-0) travels to play Rochester College Wednesday afternoon. The game will be played indoors at Ultimate Soccer in Pontiac, starting at 3 p.m.