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WESTERVILLE, Ohio – Otterbein University women's soccer posted a win in its home opener Saturday afternoon, defeating Manchester University, 1-0, at Clements Field.
Otterbein, which evens its season record at 3-3 with the triumph, hits the road next week for a pair of contests against Kenyon College, Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. and Hiram College, Sunday at 2 p.m.
The Cardinals controlled nearly the entire first half against the Spartans, but were unable to cash in on multiple chances throughout the opening 35 minutes. Otterbein's best opportunity looked to be when sophomore Megan McCabe weaved her way in and out of defenders, but came up short when she attempted to juke the goalkeeper as well.
Sophomore Jillian Strimbu tallied the difference maker in the 38th minute, blasting a shot from 35 yards away that sailed over the outstretched arms of Manchester goalkeeper Emily Willmann.
Otterbein stayed in control during second-half play, winning five corner kicks and keeping the majority of possession. Senior Morgan Hendrickson found space in the attacking zone on a few occasions, but came up empty as the Cards settled for the 1-0 win.
The Cardinals finished with a 21-4 shot advantage, taking six corner kicks compared to just two for the Spartans. Otterbein put pressure on the Manchester net all game, forcing Willmann to make 11 saves.
Dana Strimbu posted the shutout in goal for the Tan and Cardinal, making three saves and corralling a handful of other loose balls in the process.