TEMPE, Ariz. – Culture, team chemistry and energy are all things Arizona State soccer head coach Graham Winkworth applauded after his team’s 3-1 victory over the University of Denver on Sunday afternoon..
The Sun Devils didn’t wilt and beat the Pioneers despite surrendering the lead in the game’s final 10 minutes.
One of the most significant moments of Sunday’s game for both sides was set pieces. ASU accumulated 16 corners and a penalty shot, while Denver secured six corners. Both sides did a tremendous job in the set-piece department, as every goal scored was the result of a set piece.
“We create a lot of chances. [I’ve] been a bit frustrated the last couple of games that we’ve not been more clinical with those set pieces.” Winkworth said about his team’s scoring opportunities. “The girls did a great job causing chaos and then putting those balls away. So delighted that we finally scored a couple of set pieces today.”
For the Sun Devils, senior forward Tatum Thomason scored her second goal in as many games from a penalty shot. Thomason got the best of Pioneers goaltender Alina Santos, scoring on a kick to the bottom right corner of the net and giving ASU a 1-0 lead.
Denver equalized late in the 77th minute after senior forward Brooke Ahern delivered a beautiful corner. However, the Sun Devils did not fold after the score and showed tremendous character to bounce back.
“And the character that the girls showed when going level was wonderful because there’s 15 minutes left and plenty of time, and the girl demonstrated that,” Winkworth said about the fight and character that his squad showed down the stretch.
ASU regained the lead following a goal by junior defender Lucy Fazackerley following a cross and later extended the lead following a goal from sophomore midfielder Sierra Bergen.
Coach Winkworth praised his team’s comeback effort.
“We got a wonderful group, and the energy on the pitch is just as good as the energy off it, which is ultimately our team, and that’s what’s the most pleasing thing,” Winkworth said.
Winkworth preached the importance of community in the locker room, as the team boasts a very diverse background.
“We’ve got a bunch of girls from all over the world, and [we’re] delighted to have them,” Winkworth said. “It’s a credit to the staff and the girls that they don’t even think about it, which I think is wonderful. They’re just teammates, and I think it’s wonderful that some of their best friends are going to be from all over.”
The Sun Devils remain undefeated at 6-0-1 after Sunday’s win and host UTEP on Sept. 12 before beginning conference play. The victory also marked a significant milestone for coach Winkworth, as he secured his 250th career win.
“I’ve been very blessed to work with some incredible teammates, staff, coaches and ultimately players,” Winkworth said. “[The] players won 250 games. I’ve just been on the sidelines.”