Late Winner Lifts StanfordLate Winner Lifts Stanford
Al Chang/Stanford Athletics
Women's Soccer

Late Winner Lifts Stanford

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STANFORD, Calif. – Lauren Rood's sixth shutout of the season and Kyra Carusa's goal in the 86th minute lifted No. 1 Stanford to a 1-0 win over Washington on Friday night at Laird Q. Cagan Stadium.

The Cardinal (13-1-0 overall, 6-0-0 Pac-12) couldn't unlock the Huskies' (9-3-3, 2-2-2) defense until late in the game when Carusa flicked home a cross by Michelle Xiao. Xiao, collecting the ball on the left wing from Tierna Davidson, curled a perfect cross to the near post, and Carusa's subtle touch was enough to beat the Washington keeper.

Rood finished the night with three saves, including one shortly after Stanford's goal. Washington responded well to the goal, forging a chance inside the penalty area only to be denied by a fantastic save from Rood. It was Rood's sixth shutout of the season in seven starts – she has allowed just one goal on the season.

Catarina Macario led Stanford with 12 shots, including eight in the first half. Macario nearly scored several times in the half, forcing several fine saves and seeing one of her long efforts hit the crossbar.

In the 19th minute, Tierna Davidson steamed forward and ripped a shot into the side netting, nearly scoring her third of the season. Stanford had more shots from distance saved in the opening half, and entered the second period tied, 0-0.

Rood made a key save in the 65th minute before Alana Cook's looping header in the 70th minute was denied by another strong save. Stanford survived the final four minutes after Carusa's goal – Rood's key save in the 86th minute proved the difference late in the contest.

Stanford returns to action next week when it takes on Oregon at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The game will broadcast live on Pac-12 Networks, and live statistics will be available at GoStanford.com.

Cardinal Notes

  • Macario's 12 attempts on goal were a season high – she took 11 shots in Stanford's 1-0 win against Arizona (Sept. 28).
  • Rood's three saves were a career high – she previously made two saves on three occasions.
  • Following the win, Andi Sullivan leaves to train with the United States Women's National Team.
  • Stanford's perfect 18 point total continues to lead the Pac-12.
  • Carusa's goal was her team-leading 10th of the year – entering the season, Carusa had scored 10 career goals.