SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - Washington continued their impressive run of form with a commanding 3-0 victory over Indiana on Friday evening at Husky Soccer Stadium. The win extends Washington's winning streak to three matches while dealing Indiana their second loss in three games.
Washington controlled possession from the opening whistle, with Alex Hall testing the Indiana defense early with a blocked shot in the 2nd minute. Charlie Kosakoff and Joe Dale created consistent pressure in the attacking third, forcing Indiana goalkeeper Holden Brown into several early saves.
The first half saw Washington establish their dominance through aggressive pressing and quick transitions. The Huskies generated multiple scoring opportunities, with Egor Akulov narrowly missing in the 16th minute and Joe Dale sending a shot wide in the 18th minute. Indiana's Palmer Ault provided the visitors' best chance of the half, but his shot was blocked in the 30th minute. The half concluded with Harrison Bertos receiving a yellow card for Washington in the 45th minute.
Washington continued their offensive pressure after the break, with Nick O'Brien forcing a save in the 55th minute. The tactical battle intensified when Indiana's Alex Barger received a yellow card in the 71st minute for an aggressive challenge. Charlie Kosakoff's subsequent yellow card in the 79th minute reflected the match's growing intensity. The Huskies maintained their attacking momentum throughout the second half, with Asher Hestad and Joe Dale creating multiple scoring opportunities.
The statistical dominance of Washington was evident throughout the match. The Huskies outshot Indiana 26-14, with 13 shots on target compared to Indiana's 3. Washington also held a slight edge in corner kicks (9-8). The physical nature of the game was reflected in the cards shown, with Washington receiving two yellows to Indiana's one.
Several players stood out individually for both sides. Washington's Charlie Kosakoff was particularly active in the attack, registering multiple shots and creating chances throughout his time on the field. Indiana's Palmer Ault showed glimpses of danger but was ultimately contained by the organized Washington defense. Holden Brown made 10 saves for Indiana, keeping the score from becoming more lopsided.
Tactically, Washington's high-pressing system proved effective in disrupting Indiana's build-up play. The Huskies' ability to maintain possession and create chances through wide areas was particularly notable, with their wingers consistently finding space behind Indiana's fullbacks. The visitors struggled to establish their usual rhythm, forced to defend deep for extended periods.
The result continues Washington's impressive form, having now won three straight matches without conceding a goal. For Indiana, the loss represents a setback in their campaign, following their recent victory over UCLA. The Hoosiers' usually reliable defense faced significant pressure throughout the match, while their attack struggled to create clear opportunities.
Looking ahead, Washington (7-3-2) will aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to face Rutgers on October 17. Indiana (7-3-1) will look to bounce back when they host Ohio State on October 10. The contrasting fortunes of these programs were evident throughout this match, with Washington's tactical discipline and offensive efficiency proving decisive.