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Otterbein University Athletics

Otterbein Cardinals

ott jcu
1
John Carroll JCU (0-1)
2
Winner Otterbein OTT (1-0)
John Carroll JCU
(0-1)
1
Final
2
Otterbein OTT
(1-0)
Winner
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 F
John Carroll JCU 0 1 1
Otterbein OTT 1 1 2

Game Recap: Women's Soccer |

Ehrbar's PK lifts women's soccer over John Carroll

ERIE, Pa. – Facing off against a familiar foe, the Otterbein University women's soccer team opened the 2025 season in dramatic fashion, coming away with a 2-1 victory over John Carroll University. Senior Rae Ehrbar netted the game-winner with just under five minutes to play to lift Otterbein to its third straight opening day win.

Controlling the tempo for much of the first half, Otterbein broke the scoreless tie with just over three minutes remaining in the opening period. Winning the ball back in JCU territory, the ball found the feet of Natalie Smith. Smith played a ball to freshman Gianna Spano who one-touched it past the JCU goalkeeper for the early lead. 

As the second half got underway, the Blue Streaks had more opportunities than the first, eventually netting the equalizer in the 57th minute. John Carroll scored from a shot deep outside the box to find some momentum with the goal. 

With just under five minutes remaining, Otterbein was awarded a penalty kick. Ehrbar rifled the ball past the John Carroll keeper, proving to be the game-winner in the waning minutes. In goal, senior Ella Schwertfager totaled three saves to earn the win.

The Cardinals held a significant edge in shots (18-8) and a slight lead in corners (5-4).

Tomorrow, the Cardinals conclude their Pennsylvania trip with a noon match against No. 8 Messiah.
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