BLINN WOMEN’S SOCCER PLAYS TRINITY VALLEY TO 1-1 TIE

Story by Joe Alberico, Blinn College Sports Information

The 17th-ranked Blinn College women’s soccer team concluded a competitive week of Region 14 matchups with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against No. 15 Trinity Valley Community College on Saturday at Rankin Field in Brenham, Texas.

The Buccaneers moved to 4-1-2 on the season and 3-1-2 in region play.

Blinn head coach Alexandria Jackson said she was impressed with her team’s defensive effort, and also praised her team’s reserve players for their efforts late in the match.

“Our back line played lights out tonight, so it’s unfortunate we couldn’t get the clean sheet to reflect their outstanding effort,” Jackson said. “You could see the wear of the season on some of our players in the first half, but a great team has depth, and we showed it tonight.”

After the Cardinals took a 1-0 lead in the 21st minute, neither team would break through again until early in the second half.

Freshman forward Khadeeja Rhoden came off the bench for the Bucs after the intermission and was a difference maker. With the help of an assist from sophomore midfielder Allison Bratz, Rhoden found the back of the Trinity Valley net in the 55th minute.

“Khadeeja stepped up to score when we needed it most,” Jackson added.

Blinn finished with nine shots and three corner kicks.

In goal for the Bucs was freshman keeper Haidlyn Hawkins, who made eight saves.

Blinn opens play in the region’s South division when it visits No. 18 Angelina College at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 19, in Lufkin, Texas.