Sept. 23, 2007
Boulder, Colo. - A goal in the 87th minute by Denver forward Jenna Billingsley sent Stanford to its first loss of the season despite out-shooting the Pioneers 14-4 in the game. The Cardinal (7-1) have battled injuries all season and, at times, have been playing without four starters.
Stanford came out strong in the first half, getting a couple of shots on Denver in the first six minutes of action. Ali Riley made her season debut in the first half after playing for New Zealand in the Women's World Cup. The Cardinal's strong first half defense forced freshman goalkeeper Kira Maker to make only one save in the half. Maker has only allowed two goals in her three starts this season.
The second half was also controlled heavily by Stanford as they out shot Denver 7-3 in the second half. Shari Summers was able to get two shots on goal in the second half, but Denver goalkeeper MacKenzie Synder kept Stanford off the board.
Head Coach Paul Ratcliffe praised Denver after the game and mentioned the need to keep improving. "Denver played a very strong game," said Ratcliffe. "We got some shots on goal, but they are a very strong team and played a very good game".
Stanford returns home to take on the University of San Francisco next Friday, Sept. 28. They will also take on St. Mary's College on Sunday, Sept. 30. Both games will take place at Laird Q. Cagan Stadium on the Stanford University campus.