SAN ANTONIO (Nov. 2, 2024) – The Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) women’s soccer team capped off a successful regular season with a decisive 4-2 victory over Huston-Tillotson University (HTU) this past Saturday afternoon. With this win, the Saints concluded their season with an overall record of 8-6-2, while finishing strong in the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) regular season with a commendable 7-5-1 record. In contrast, the Rams ended their season struggling at 3-11-1 overall and 2-9-1 in RRAC play.
The Saints seized the opportunity to celebrate their graduating players during the match, honoring seniors Haven Ortiz, Dusty Van Huss, Emily Wissel-Littmann, Lyndee Rheinberger, Ez Valles, Olivia Olivarez-Coil, Sara Nishiyama, and Samantha Valadez as part of a heartfelt Seniors’ Day event.
History
Before this contest, the Saints boasted an impressive 13-3 record against the Rams, showcasing their historical dominance in this matchup.
Game recap
The Rams shocked the Saints by netting the first goal just 58 seconds into the match, putting OLLU on the back foot early in the first half. However, the Saints quickly responded; Lyndee Rheinberger assisted her teammate, and moments later, her sister Lyndee switched roles, evening the score shortly thereafter. Determined to regain control, the Saints ramped up their offensive efforts and were rewarded when Vivianna Gutierrez found the back of the net at the 39th minute, thanks to an assist from Kaitlyn Olivas, putting the Saints ahead. The intensity didn’t let up as Olivas scored again shortly after, at the 41st minute, with support from Emerson Weiler. Just a minute later, Wissel-Littmann put her stamp on the scoreline with an unassisted goal, elevating the Saints to a commanding 4-1 lead before halftime.
Huston-Tillotson managed to reduce their deficit with a second goal in the 70th minute. Despite the Rams’ attempts to rally, the Saints maintained their advantage and didn’t add to their tally in the second half. They continued to apply pressure, earning three corner kicks and recording a total of 24 shots, with 14 of those on target. Both Wissel-Littmann and Rheinberger contributed significantly to the offensive effort, each taking four shots during the match. Samantha Valadez emerged as a key player in goal, making four impressive saves to secure her sixth victory of the season, bringing her record to 6-6-2.
What’s next
The Saints are set to advance to the RRAC Postseason Tournament, which kicks off next week, looking to leverage their regular-season momentum into a postseason run.
**Interview with Coach Maria Sanchez of the OLLU Women’s Soccer Team**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Coach Sanchez. Congratulations on the victory over Huston-Tillotson University! How did it feel to end the regular season with such a strong performance?
**Coach Sanchez:** Thank you! It was an incredible feeling. The team played exceptionally well, and it was nice to see our graduating seniors leave with a victory. They have all contributed so much to our program, and I’m glad we could celebrate them properly on Seniors’ Day.
**Editor:** Your team finished the season with an overall record of 8-6-2. What do you think were the key factors in your team’s success this season?
**Coach Sanchez:** Consistency was key. We had some ups and downs, but the girls stayed focused and worked hard throughout. Their determination during critical matches, especially in our conference games, made a significant difference. The unity among the players also brought out the best in each other.
**Editor:** Speaking of unity, can you tell us more about the significance of honoring your seniors during the match?
**Coach Sanchez:** Honoring our seniors is always a special moment for the team. These players have dedicated years to our program, both on and off the field. It’s important for them to know how much they are valued and how they have impacted our team culture. We want them to leave knowing they have made a difference.
**Editor:** With such a commanding history against Huston-Tillotson, what was your strategic approach heading into this game?
**Coach Sanchez:** We focused on playing our game—sticking to our strategy and executing our plays. We understood their strengths and weaknesses from past matches, and we aimed to capitalize on that. The girls executed the game plan effectively, which is reflected in the scoreline.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what are your goals for the upcoming postseason?
**Coach Sanchez:** As we move into the postseason, our primary goal is to carry this momentum forward. We want to build on our strengths and learn from our past challenges. If we can keep this team spirit alive and our playing level high, I believe we can make a strong push in the playoffs.
**Editor:** Thank you, Coach Sanchez, and best of luck in the postseason!
**Coach Sanchez:** Thank you! We appreciate the support!
