EL PASO, Texas — In its first WAC matchup in 475 days, the Chicago State women's soccer team fell to New Mexico State, 5-0.
After 24 minutes of stalemate, New Mexico State forward Corey Kizer struck with a left-foot tapper from point-blank range to power the Aggies ahead entering halftime.
At the break, New Mexico State's lead was 1-0 at University Field in El Paso, where the match was held due to weather-related travel considerations.
In the second half, Aggies forward Shea O'Connor drilled two goals in 42 seconds to extend the lead to 3-0 at the 65th minute. Seven minutes later, O'Connor once again found the back of the net to cap off a hat trick. Midfielder Xitlaly Hernandez then punctuated New Mexico State's night with an 84th-minute goal to close the match at 5-0.
For Chicago State, freshman goalkeeper Stella Chiara Chiaradia notched five saves on the night, while Saige Thor tallied a shot on goal in the 85th minute.
"The fatigue with the travel affected the team mentally and physically," head coach Cristiano Costa said. "With some rest tomorrow, we expect a better outcome on Monday."
The Cougars and Aggies will face off again on Monday at 12:30 pm CT in El Paso, Texas.
