BOULDER, COLORADO — UCCS and Colorado Mesa played to a 0-0 draw Thursday in a defensive struggle that saw both regional powers create chances but fail to convert. The Mountain Lions (12-2-3) and Mavericks (11-2-2) combined for 26 shot attempts across 90 minutes, yet neither team could break through in a match that highlighted the defensive prowess of both squads.
Colorado Mesa dominated possession and territory throughout, recording 17 shot attempts compared to UCCS's nine. The Mavericks generated eight corner kicks and forced UCCS goalkeeper to make seven saves. Despite the territorial advantage, Colorado Mesa couldn't find the back of the net, with shots from Parker Mairs, Katie Lozano-Monjaraz, Ellie Duncan, and Olivia Barrett all missing the target.
UCCS, playing on the road, absorbed pressure effectively and created dangerous opportunities on the counter. Emily Aguilar, Mikaela Carlson, Mattea Morris, and Malia Groshong all tested Colorado Mesa's defense with shots that went wide or were blocked. The Mountain Lions' five shots on goal kept the Mavericks' backline honest throughout the match.
The first half remained tightly contested, with both teams generating chances without capitalizing. Colorado Mesa's Peyton Bundy and Parker Mairs came close early, while UCCS's Aguilar and Carlson created problems for the home defense. Brooklyn Baird received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 42nd minute as tensions mounted before halftime.
Colorado Mesa pressed harder after