Buffaloes Dominate UConn in Historic First Matchup
In a thrilling first-ever meeting, No. 14 Colorado showcased their prowess by defeating UConn 11-5 on Wednesday. The Buffaloes wrapped up their nonconference season with an unblemished home record, a testament to their defensive tenacity as they've held every opponent to single-digit scores this season.
Colorado outperformed UConn across the board, leading in ground balls (16-12), draw controls (11-7), caused turnovers (9-8), and assists (6-1). Head coach Ann Elliott Whidden praised her squad's resilience, particularly their defensive efforts against UConn's aggressive style.
“We knew how good they were at applying pressure,” Whidden remarked. “I'm proud of our defense for sticking to the plan and slowing them down.”
Four Buffaloes found the back of the net, with Rowan Edson shining brightly by scoring her first career hat trick. Lily Assini was the standout with six points, netting four goals and dishing out two assists.
Edson doubled her previous career-high with three goals and an assist, while Jaimey Hill contributed two goals and two assists. Teagan Ryan rounded out the scoring with her two goals.
Game Recap
UConn struck first, but Edson quickly evened the score with a free position goal. Both defenses held firm until Assini set up Ryan for a man-up goal, followed by Edson's late first-quarter strike, giving Colorado a 3-1 lead.
The Buffaloes extended their advantage in the second quarter with Hill scoring early. Despite UConn's efforts to close the gap, Colorado's offense, spearheaded by Assini, responded with vigor. Assini netted three goals in the final two minutes of the half, assisted by Hill and Edson, pushing the lead to 8-5 at halftime.
The third quarter saw stellar defensive work from Colorado, with goalie Elena Oh making crucial saves to keep UConn scoreless. Hill's late goal, assisted by Shoup, increased the lead to six.
In the fourth, UConn managed a man-up goal, but Assini quickly responded with a free position goal, marking her sixth point of the game. Edson put the finishing touch on the victory with her third goal, sealing the game at 11-5.
Looking Ahead
The Buffaloes are set to host their conference home opener against San Diego State on Saturday, March 28, at 12 p.m. MT. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+.
Game Notes
- Colorado remains undefeated against UConn.
- Every CU goal scorer netted at least two goals.
- Rowan Edson achieved her first career hat trick.
- Molly Reed dominated the draw controls with four.
- Eight Buffaloes recorded at least one caused turnover.
- This marks the second time this season that multiple Buffaloes have scored a hat trick, the first being against Towson.
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