CLINTON, Iowa - With a penchant for the dramatic flair early in her young career, Ashford University women's soccer freshman forward Trisha Shoemaker of Bettendorf scored two more goals, including the game winner in a non-conference clash against Coe College in double-overtime, 2-1, on Wednesday evening.
Shoemaker's decisive header off a free kick from sophomore Marianne Broevik of Drammen, Norway, in the 112th minute put the finishing touches on a match that had the Saints (3-3 overall) dominating the shot chart and time of possession against the Kohawks (1-3).
Shoemaker's team-leading fourth and fifth goals of the year currently rank 11th nationally among all NAIA players.
"I thought we played a well-rounded match, especially on the offensive end with one-touch passing and controlling possession," AU Head Coach Mick Regan said. "We had multiple chances to put this game away, but I'm proud of our players for finishing strong in the final moments. Our defense really neutralized Coe's opportunities."
The Saints dominated possession through the duration of the match, but Coe made its first shot of the game count with just over 10 minutes left in regulation as Justine Screws split the middle of the defense for the equalizer.
At the time, Ashford held a 13-0 advantage in the shot department and finished the game with an 18-3 edge.
Ashford was able to fire off another shot against Kohawk goalie Jillian Reynolds before time expired in regulation, but it was saved. The Saints kept Reynolds on her heels with three more shots in the first overtime, including two by freshman Jordan Pisesky of Calgary, Alberta.
Shoemaker shielded a Kohawk defender and wheeled around for her first goal at the 17:40 mark in the first half. Sophomore midfielder Chelsea Fisher of Calgary, Alberta, was credited with her second assist of the season.
Even more striking is that Shoemaker missed the rare hat trick by just inches in the opening moments after her open-field speed resulted in a one-on-one breakaway. Her attempt missed the net just wide.
Shoemaker, a former standout at Pleasant Valley High School, has now scored a pair of goals in two games this year, beginning the season with a two-goal effort at Northwestern College. She also added the team's lone score against Dordt College.
Sophomore goalkeeper Jerika Castillo of Iowa City made a pair of saves to collect the win.
The Saints will look to extend their win streak to three games this weekend on the road at Calumet College of St. Joseph on Saturday. The game against the Crimson Wave is set to begin at 3 p.m. in Whiting, Ind.
