PENSACOLA, Fla. – The College of Idaho Women's Soccer team's dream season came to an emotional conclusion Saturday evening as the Yotes suffered their first and only loss of the season, falling 2-0 to SCAD Savannah in the NAIA Championship Semifinals. The Yotes close their historic campaign with an impressive 20-1-2 record, cementing themselves as one of the premier programs in the nation.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that this was a battle of heavyweights. The Yotes, known for their offensive precision and relentless defense, fought valiantly against a SCAD team determined to make its own history. Goalkeeper Alivia Brenchley delivered a stellar performance, recording six crucial saves as SCAD peppered the net with 15 shots, eight of which were on target.
Despite a fast-paced start and seven shots of their own, including two on goal, the Yotes couldn't find the breakthrough. Eden Makaafi and Gianna Yslava came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half, but SCAD's goalkeeper, Saga Bryntesson, was impenetrable.
The deadlock was broken in the 19th minute when SCAD's Abigail Siddall capitalized on an assist from Ines Sommer, curling a shot into the net to put the Bees ahead 1-0. The Yotes regrouped and pushed for an equalizer, dominating stretches of possession and earning five corner kicks, but their finishing touch eluded them.
The decisive moment came in the 80th minute. SCAD's Mia Gomez found the back of the net off a pinpoint assist from Sydney Chura, doubling the lead and deflating the Yotes' hopes of a comeback.
As the final whistle blew, the Yotes walked off the field with heads held high, knowing they had not only made history but also inspired a legacy of excellence that will endure. While the season ended in heartbreak, the 2024 College of Idaho Women's Soccer team will be remembered for their unbreakable spirit and record-breaking accomplishments.
