SAU was backed by Wendt's two second half goals to claim back-to-back CCAC Tournament titles
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Olivet Nazarene (IL) (9-5-6, 7-0-4) | 1 | 0 | 1 |
|
St. Ambrose (IA) (14-5-2, 9-2) | 0 | 2 | 2 |
Kendall Wendt came up big for the Bees as she scored two second half goals to earn St. Ambrose back-to-back bragging rights of the CCAC Tournament title. SAU defeated Olivet Nazarene 2-1 this evening in the CCAC Tournament Championship match at St. Vincent's Athletic Complex. The Bees added this championship feat to their already regular-season championship. This is all deja-vu for SAU as the Bees defeated ONU last season in the CCAC Conference Tournament game 1-0.
St. Ambrose appeared to be on their heels to start play as the Tigers had one of their best chances all match within the first ten minutes. Grace Kuchar stood tall as she garnished a save after a high sailing ball looked to be headed for the back of the net, but Kuchar kept it scoreless.
Then, in the 15th minute of action, ONU found a score to put themselves up 1-0 and heighten the pressure on SAU. Shortly after, the Bees did go on a short offensive burst of their own, but would never find a game-tying goal.
The Bees continued to pressure the back line of Olivet Nazarene, but they would never crack in the opening period as St. Ambrose went into the break having conceded a goal and scoreless themselves. The Bees had gone eight matches prior without conceding a goal.
In the final period of play, SAU made a few adjustments which proved to be the correct ones. After the Bees dominated the start of the second half, it was Wendt who proved to be the game-changer for the Bees.
Taylor DeSplinter powered down the sideline to find an open Wendt in the box. All it took was a one-timed ball into the back of the net to give the Bees the momentum they would need.
Both sides had offensive opportunities but none too threatening until it was St. Ambrose's turn.
Again, Wendt saved the day for SAU after a scramble in the box. Mia Hefner and DeSplinter were credited with the assist. Wendt's second goal proved to be the game-winner for St. Ambrose.
Not much would come for either side the remainder of the match as the Bees defeated ONU 2-1.
St. Ambrose did not concede a corner kick all match as they went on to take 12 for themselves.
Kuchar ended the 90 minutes with three saves.
SAU will further their season in the NAIA National Tournament. Pairings for the opening round of the NAIA National Tournament will be announced via the selection show hosted by the NAIA. The selection show is set for this Sat. at 1 p.m. CST.