GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - Laney Stark needed just 117 seconds to write the Phoenix's obituary, slotting home Rebecca Stoeckmann's perfectly weighted through ball before 1,247 fans at the Kress Events Center, propelling Green Bay to a 2-1 victory over Wright State and snapping the Raiders' four-match unbeaten streak.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a defensive chess match, with both teams marshaling their resources to protect their respective goals. Green Bay's goalkeeper made three crucial saves to deny Wright State's attackers, while the Phoenix managed just four shots on target across 90 minutes, a stark contrast to Green Bay's nine attempts.
The first half was a tactical battle, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Wright State's midfield orchestrated a series of possession-based attacks, but Green Bay's defense held firm, absorbing the pressure and denying the Raiders' forwards any meaningful opportunities. The Phoenix, meanwhile, relied on counter-attacks, with Stoeckmann and Amber Branum causing problems for Wright State's backline with their pace and precision.
As the half wore on, Green Bay began to assert their dominance, with Stark and Samara Nunn combining to create a promising chance in the 31st minute. Although Wright State's goalkeeper made a comfortable save, the Phoenix continued to press, eventually earning a corner kick that was cleared with ease.
The second half saw Wright State push for an equalizer, but Green Bay's defense remained resolute. Senah Hanes doubled the Phoenix's lead in the 63rd minute, unleashing a powerful shot that flew into the top corner. Wright State responded with renewed urgency, and their efforts were rewarded when Ruby Dunlevy scored with a clever finish in the 69th minute, assisted by Nunn and Branum.
Despite the Wright State push, Green Bay held firm, with their defense epitomizing the team's afternoon. The statistical ledger reveals a convincing performance from the Phoenix, who outshot Wright State 12-6 overall and held a commanding 9-4 advantage in shots on target. Wright State, meanwhile, managed just three corner kicks to Green Bay's zero, a telling statistic that highlighted the Phoenix's defensive solidity.
The victory represents more than three points for Green Bay; it marks their first win in their last five matches and continues their momentum heading into their next game against IU Indy. For Wright State, the loss extends their losing streak to one game and raises concerns about their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly at set pieces. The Raiders will look to regroup against Milwaukee next time out.
Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for these two teams. Green Bay will look to build on their momentum against IU Indy, while Wright State will need to regroup and address their defensive concerns before facing Milwaukee. The Phoenix, meanwhile, will be keen to maintain their defensive solidity and continue their scoring form.
The afternoon belonged to Green Bayβand specifically to Laney Stark, whose early strike set the tone for a convincing victory. As the Phoenix look to build on this win, they will be confident in their ability to grind out results against tough opponents.
Key Players:
Laney Stark (Green Bay) β The match-winner showed clinical finishing, slotting home Stoeckmann's through ball with composure that settled her team's nerves.
Rebecca Stoeckmann (Green Bay) β Weighted a perfectly timed through ball to Stark, creating the Phoenix's opening chance and dictating the game's early tempo.
Senah Hanes (Green Bay) β Doubled the Phoenix's lead with a powerful shot that flew into the top corner, showcasing her goal-scoring prowess.
Ruby Dunlevy (Wright St.) β Scored a crucial consolation goal, finishing with a clever touch that highlighted her technical ability.