PORTALES, N.M. – The Adams State Grizzlies kicked off their 2024 women's soccer season with a 1-1 draw against the Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds on Thursday evening. Despite dominating possession for most of the match, Adams State couldn't secure a win after a hard-fought 90 minutes.
The Grizzlies took the lead late in the first half. Midfielder Karlee Caballero fired a long-range shot into the top corner of the net in the 35th minute. The goal was set up with a deep pass from forward Denali Levin, giving the visiting Grizzlies a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.
Eastern New Mexico responded quickly in the second half. The Greyhounds tied the game just eight minutes after the break when Mariana Gonzalez Jimenez intercepted a long kick and evened the score at 1-1. Katelyn Aune provided the assist.
In the final 45 minutes, Adams State proved to be the more aggressive team, creating several chances to retake the lead. They took eight shots in the second half, with five of those on target, but Eastern New Mexico goalkeeper Rosie Willmott Joyce made several key saves to preserve the tie. Adams State's Colette Tena and Molly Lancaster both came close to scoring, but their efforts were denied by Willmott Joyce.
Defensively, Adams State goalkeeper Ashlyn Bartley had a quieter night, facing just two shots on goal. Bartley made one save, helping her team secure a point in their first game of the season.
"We played a tough, physical game for a full 90 minutes. ENMU made it difficult. Couldn't be happier with our fight and resilience tonight," said head coach Alex Greco.
Both teams battled hard throughout the match, with plenty of fouls – 10 apiece – but neither side received any yellow or red cards. The Grizzlies also held a notable edge in possession, controlling 57% of the ball compared to Eastern New Mexico's 43%.
The Grizzlies will be back in action on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 4 p.m. MT against Lubbock Christian in Lubbock, Texas. The game will be available to stream on the Lone Star Network.
