MADISON, Wis – The Wisconsin women's soccer team opened its 2023 season against Kansas at the McClimon Soccer Complex on Thursday night. Both sides fought to a 0-0 draw, starting the Badgers out with a record of 0-0-1.
 
How it happened
The Badgers (0-0-1) hit the ground running, bringing both intensity and physicality from the first minute. The best opportunity of the first half came in the 44th minute when the Badgers were awarded a penalty kick. Unfortunately, KU (0-0-1) goalkeeper Melania Pasar managed to pull off a great save to keep both sides level going into the half.

No real threat came from either side in the second half up until the 89th minute when Maia Richters just barely missed the frame, almost scoring a last-minute goal to put the Badgers ahead.

Overall, it was offensive domination from the Badgers, who had 23 total shots to the Jayhawks' 7. In terms of shots on target it was nine to five in Wisconsin's favor. The game was mainly played in Kansas' defensive half with the Badgers threatening to score on multiple occasions.

Especially noteworthy was the performance of the freshmen, who impressed in their debuts for the Cardinal and White. Erin Connolly, Hailey Baumann and Ella Ottey all played important roles in the draw. 

Straight from the Pitch – Goalkeeper Erin McKinney
"It was not the result we wanted but we are super proud of the shutout. Everyone did really well defensively, and we had plenty of shots on goal. Once we put those in the back of the net it will be really exciting".
 
Next up
Next up Wisconsin plays UIC at home on Sunday at 1 p.m. and admission is free.