Sept. 15, 2013
WATCH: Jason Neidell Discusses WKU's 0-0 Tie Versus Tennessee
WATCH: Nora Abolins Talks About Her 11-Save Shutout
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - WKU senior goalkeeper Nora Abolins recorded a career-high 11 saves and WKU staved off 36 shots from Tennessee on Sunday as the Lady Toppers tied the Lady Vols 0-0 at Regal Soccer Stadium.
Tennessee (5-2-1) dictated the pace throughout the game and outshot WKU 36-10 in 110 minutes of action, but Abolins tallied save after save and WKU didn't allow many clean looks to preserve the draw.
Senior Sydney Sisler fired three shots for the third-consecutive game, including WKU's lone shot on goal. Sisler nearly netted the game-winner in the 98th minute when she fired from about eight yards out, but a save from Tennessee's goalkeeper Julie Eckel kept the score at 0-0.
The Lady Toppers (1-3-3) outshot the Lady Vols 3-2 in the second overtime period, nearly missing on two shots from Lauren Moats. Moats missed high in the 106th minute just inside of the box and had a good look blocked in the 109th minute.
Abolins' shutout was the second of her WKU career and 26th shutout in her college career. Her most crucial save came in the 88th minute of the game, when Tennessee fired on goal from about 10 yards out. Abolins leaped and was able to punch the ball just over the crossbar to keep the score knotted at 0-0.
Not only did the Lady Toppers keep Tennessee out of the net for 110 minutes despite 36 shots, but they also fended off 12 corner kicks by the Lady Vols.
WKU returns to action Friday when they travel to Nashville, Tenn. to take on Belmont at 4:00 p.m. (CT). The Lady Toppers are back at the WKU Soccer Complex next Sunday when they host Lipscomb at 1:00 p.m. For tickets and more information on WKU Soccer, call 1-800-5 BIGRED or visit WKUSports.com.
