CENTENNIAL, Colo. — For nearly 25 months, The College of Idaho women's soccer team had been untouchable in regular season play. That streak came to a dramatic end Thursday afternoon as the No. 3-ranked Yotes fell 1-0 to the University of Science and Arts (Okla.) in a battle of nationally recognized programs at Centennial Stadium.
The Yotes (2-1-0) controlled the match from the opening whistle, dictating pace and possession while generating a flurry of chances. They outshot USAO 14-7, including seven attempts in each half, and held a 4-3 edge in shots on goal. But despite the statistical dominance, the scoreboard told a different story.
USAO (2-2-1), receiving votes in the national poll, found the breakthrough in the 64th minute when midfielder Ilse de Jong capitalized on a brief lapse in the Yotes' back line and fired home an unassisted goal which is her fourth of the season. It was one of just five shots on goal for the Drovers, who made the most of their limited opportunities.
The Yotes had their chances to equalize. Senior forward Abbi Roubidoux led the attack with four shots, two on frame, while freshman Natasja Davis nearly changed the game in the 60th minute when her shot clanged off the post. Goalkeeper Alivia Brenchley matched USAO's Ashlyn Lonberg with four saves, keeping the Yotes within striking distance until the final whistle.
The match was physical and tightly contested, with The College of Idaho committing nine fouls to USAO's eight, and earning three corner kicks to the Drovers' four. But in the end, the Yotes couldn't find the finishing touch to extend their unbeaten run.
The loss marks The College of Idaho's first regular season defeat since August 2023, a testament to the program's consistency and national stature. But the Yotes won't have long to dwell on the result. They'll face another top-tier opponent in No. 4-ranked John Brown University (Ark.) on September 6th in Littleton, Colorado, with a prime opportunity to bounce back and reaffirm their place among the NAIA elite.
