HONOLULU – No. 3 Stanford conceded an early goal but produced a dominating effort and rallied for two late goals to earn a season-opening 2-1 victory Friday night at Hawai'i.
The Cardinal (1-0) improved to 8-0-1 in season-openers since 2007 and remained undefeated against Hawai'I (0-1) all-time.
Stanford found itself in an early hole after allowing a goal just 31 seconds into the game. However, the Cardinal applied plenty of pressure throughout the match, outshooting the 'Bows 23-4 and holding a 6-0 corner kick advantage.
Andi Sullivan broke through for Stanford in the 73rd minute when she converted a rebound off a blocked penalty kick to knot the score at 1-1. Freshman Alana Cook delivered the first goal of her collegiate career – the eventual game winner – less than seven minutes later to give Stanford a 2-1 lead.
Sullivan and Michelle Xiao led the Cardinal with five shots apiece, followed by Haley Rosen with four. Mariah Leegenerated three shots off the bench, while Stephanie Amack contributed two shots.
Stanford's defense held Hawai'i's leading scorer from a year ago, Storm Kenui, to zero shots and did not allow a 'Bows shot in the second half.
The Cardinal had its opportunities offensively throughout the contest but often saw its shots sail wide or high.Tegan McGrady nearly got her first goal of the year in the 28th minute when she hit the crossbar. Ryan Walker-Hartshorn also saw her shot hit the frame when she hit the post in the 65th minute.
Hawai'i goalkeeper Monk Berger had a strong night in goal with seven saves, while Stanford goalie Jane Campbell registered one stop.
The Cardinal returns to action Monday at 10 p.m. (PT) when it takes on BYU.