UNLV women’s soccer lost 1-0 to the University of New Mexico Lobos Friday night in Albuquerque. The loss ended the Rebels’ two-match unbeaten run.
UNLV goalkeeper Riley Liebsack had a busy start to the game. The Lobos piled the pressure on and produced eight shots within the first 15 minutes. Three of those were on target and saved by Liebsack.
In a likely response to the early pressure from the Lobos, the Rebels made three substitutions. Hevani Haunga, Savannah Nichols and Kennedi Schmidt all entered the game.
The fast pace continued from the Lobos, but the Rebels’ defense held up. A furious first-half pace from the Lobos saw them finish with 13 shots while the Rebels had three. The half ended 0-0.
The second half was another rough start for the Rebels as the Lobos’ pressure broke through the defense. New Mexico’s Leilani Baker got her fifth goal of the season with an assist from Sophia Roberts to make the score 1-0.
The Rebels urgently responded, racing up the field two minutes later with a shot from Mimi Mendoza, but her shot was saved by New Mexico goalkeeper Alli Davis.
The game evened up after the goal. The Rebels pushed for an equalizer while the Lobos tightened up defensively.
The Rebels’ best chance came in the 80th minute when Jules Dominguez had her cross deflect off Schmidt, but Davis made the save.
It could have been 2-0 in the final minutes if not for Liebsack. New Mexico’s top scorer Jadyn Edwards hit a powerful shot down the middle, but Liebsack was able to hold onto it. The game ended 1-0.
The Rebels (3-9-3, 1-3-3) finished with nine shots compared to the Lobos (5-3-6, 3-1-3) 22. Liebsack matched her conference-season-high save total with seven saves.
Up next, the Rebels will complete their away game slate against San Diego State on Oct. 16. After that, they only have three games remaining on their schedule.
They will return home for a game on Thursday for a 7 p.m. kickoff against Colorado College for Kick Cancer Night. The Rebels will also host Air Force Sunday at 1 p.m. on Military Appreciation Day.
