Goal by Wachira in 88th Minute Lifts Milligan Women’s Soccer over CIU

MILLIGAN, Tenn. – On Saturday afternoon at Anglin Field, the Milligan University women's soccer squad faced off with Columbia International University in an Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) bout. The two squads played an even first half, which was followed by a similar second half, but the Buffs pulled through with an 88th-minute goal to take a 1-0 result for their first win in 2024.

The opening half of play was about missed opportunities for both sides, as Milligan had five shots, three of which were saved by the CIU goalie. Conversely, the Rams took five shots but only one was on net. The Buffs slightly outpaced the competition regarding possession, earning five corners to just one for CIU.

The second half held more of the same, in fact, CIU had multiple chances thwarted by the Buffs, but much of the Milligan attack was stymied until the 88th minute, when Angela Wachira scored a beautiful goal off a set piece from Lauren Hawkley to tally what would be the game-winning goal, her first of the season.

Beyond Wachira's goal on her one shot of the game, Natalie Roper was the most potent attacker for the squad, notching four shots, with one of them finishing on net. Grace Baldwin, Lucy Knowles and Lauren Hawkley also had single shots that were on frame. Nikki Shirley took one shot, as well.

Akyla Walcott didn't see a lot of action, but did squelch all three shots on goal from the Rams to move her season record to 1-4-1.

After the victory, the Buffs have much to look forward to, as they have now felt what it is like to win a tight-fought battle, which will serve them well as they face off with Bryan College in Dayton, Tenn. this Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 5 p.m. looking to build a winning streak.