RIVER FALLS, Wis. – The UW-River Falls women's soccer team launched the 2025 season with a commanding 3-0 victory over Crown College during its home opener on Friday afternoon at Ramer Soccer Stadium.
The Falcons overwhelmed the Polars with 54 shots, including 27 on goal, while maintaining a shutout defensively. UWRF's 27 shots on goal tied last year's season-high when the Falcons also totaled 27 during a 5-0 win over Minnesota Morris on Sept. 10, 2024. Additionally, the Falcons' 54 shot attempts was the program's most since totaling 69 on Sept. 21, 2002 versus UW-Superior, an 11-0 victory.
The Falcons struck first in the 19
th minute when
Ellie Ketcher scored her first goal of the season, assisted by
Emery Bigler and
Brooke McDaniel, to give UWRF a 1-0 lead. The Falcons continued their offensive attack in the second period, with Bigler adding an unassisted goal in the 70
th minute to make it 2-0. Just three minutes later,
Abby Drontle sealed the victory with her goal of the season, assisted by
Lexi Atkinson, finalizing the score at 3-0.
UWRF's defense was relentless, holding Crown to zero shots throughout the match. Goalkeepers
Kiera Nelson and
Courtney Bain shared duties, combining for a clean sheet without facing a single shot on goal. The Falcons controlled the game's tempo, earning an 11-0 advantage in corner kicks.
Ellie Ketcher led the attack with seven shots, three on goal, and the opening score.
Lauren Best was a constant threat, recording 10 shots, three on goal, pressuring the Crown defense throughout.
Emery Bigler contributed a goal and an assist, taking four shots, two on goal, in 50 minutes.
Abby Drontle made an impact off the bend, scoring the final goal with six shots, four on goal.
The Falcons will aim to carry their momentum into their next match. Up next, UWRF will face St. Norbert College on Aug. 31 at 2 p.m. at Ramer Soccer Stadium.
