On Thursday, Sept. 3, the University of Idaho Women’s Soccer Team secured a hard-fought win against the University of South Dakota with a 1-0 dub on SD’s home turf.
The Vandals’ one and only goal came in 33 minutes and 15 seconds, orchestrated by sophomore midfielder Alyssa Hamilton. Hamilton was subbed in for senior Tori Peters just after the 20-minute mark, and she made her presence known less than 15 minutes later.
Hamilton’s goal ended up being the true highlight of the game, landing UI its fourth win of the season and second shutout victory in a row. With this win, the Vandals have improved to a 4-1-1 on the season.
As big a role as the offensive lineup played, the Vandals defense was the true backbone of the match.
South Dakota made 15 shots throughout the game, but thanks to the defensive lineup, only two made their way towards the net. Goaltender Paula Flores, starter and senior, deflected them both, earning herself her 20th career shutout. The perfect 21st birthday gift for the accomplished goalkeeper.
For Flores, the record means more than just another statistic. This milestone represents years of hard work and consistency, and Thursday’s performance showed exactly why she now owns the top spot in the Idaho record book.
The Vandals’ offense also showed plenty of life despite the low-scoring final. Idaho outshot South Dakota 17-15 and put four shots on goal. Junior forward Georgia Whitehead led the charge with six shots, while Hamilton recorded two, both of which were right on target.
The final minutes were where Idaho’s defensive prowess really mattered.
South Dakota continued to push for an equalizer, even as the clock wound down. With just 17 seconds remaining, a South Dakota attempt was blocked. Then, with only three seconds left, another shot sailed off target. Idaho survived the night.
Thursday’s victory was not flashy, but it didn’t need to be. Despite it still being early in the season, only a handful of roadies deep; Idaho continues to prove that they’re an absolute threat both at home and on the road.
For Idaho, Hamilton supplied the moment. Flores supplied the wall. And together, they gave the Vandals another road win to remember.
The Vandals remained in South Dakota following Thursday’s victory for a matchup with South Dakota State on Sunday, but unfortunately that match was cancelled due to weather advisory. Even having lost the opportunity to end another roadie on a high note, the Vandals made a striking impact on the road and continue to be a monumental presence in the league.
The win also gives the Vandals another opportunity to build confidence as the season continues. With each game, Idaho continues to find ways to make an impact, whether that comes through a timely goal, a crucial defensive stop, or a standout performance in goal. Thursday’s matchup was a perfect example of that balance, with the Vandals finding just enough offense while relying on their defense to protect the lead.
Although the 1-0 scoreline may not jump off the page, the result says plenty about the team’s ability to stay composed in a close game. Idaho held onto its advantage through the final seconds and refused to let South Dakota’s late pressure change the outcome. That ability to stay locked in when the game is on the line proved valuable as the Vandals move deeper into the season.
Now, with another road victory under their belt and a growing list of strong performances, the Vandals look ahead to what comes next. The cancellation may have kept them from adding another game to the weekend, but it did not take away what Idaho accomplished in South Dakota. One goal was all it took. One goalkeeper stood tall. And 90 minutes later, the Vandals walked away with another win.
The Vandals next matchup will be at home against Grand Canyon University on Thursday, September 10 at 7:00.