Box Score

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, OHIO - Sophomore Rachel Denz scored her first career goal late in the second half as #5 Otterbein earned a 1-0 victory at John Carroll Saturday afternoon to open conference play.

The victory is the 200th in program history, as well as the 100th win in Ohio Athletic Conference play.

The Cardinals, who tied John Carroll the previous two meetings, use the win to move to 8-0-1 on the season and 1-0 in the OAC. The loss drops the Blue Streaks to 3-6-2 overall and 0-1 in league play.

The first half featured strong defensive play from both sides, and the Cards would hold a slim 4-3 shot advantage at the break.

Otterbein out-shot Carroll 4-3 over the first 30 minutes of the second half, and made its fifth shot count after defender Laura Vasbinder came up to take a throw-in from the sideline, and Tara Smith headed the the incoming ball into the box.

An incoming Denz made her way to the ball and deposited it into the right side of the net for what would be the eventual winning goal.

The Cards held a 10-7 advantage in shots as well as a 6-2 edge on corner kicks.

Both Tara Carter and JCU goalkeeper Molly Gradowski stopped three shots in goal.

Otterbein returns home to host Heidelberg Tuesday at Clements Field. First kick is slated for 4:30 p.m.