Ravens' Defeat of Butler First in Program's History

From the start, Butler's game plan was to possess the ball, move it around the pitch patiently, and look to exploit the gaps in the Lady Red Ravens defense. Coffeyville countered the Grizzlies by keeping their defensive shape, communicating, and pressing Butler to not allow them time on the ball. Despite Coffeyville's organization and tenacity, the Grizzlies were able to score the first goal of the game. Following their goal, Butler continued to attack the Lady Red Raven defense but Coffeyville defended well and started to build momentum. It was going to be tough for the Lady Red Ravens going against the wind in the first half. Coffeyville did not let that stop them as they moved the ball well, attacked the line, and tested the Grizzlies' goalkeeper. The Lady Red Ravens finished the first half strong as they put Butler under pressure. The Grizzlies tightened up in the back and saw their 1-0 lead out until halftime. 

 

Coming out of halftime, Coffeyville was now with the wind and they used it to their advantage. The ball hardly left the Grizzlies' defensive half as the Lady Red Ravens pressed high up the pitch not allowing Butler any space or time on the ball. As soon as Coffeyville won possession, they were looking to drive at the Grizzlies' defense and get a shot on goal. It was a matter of time until the Lady Red Ravens would get their equalizer and sure enough, they did. Freshman Emily Hannah was on a set piece from 50 yards out. Hannah sent a dangerous ball into the box that the goalkeeper could not handle. The Grizzlies' keeper blocked Emily's shot but was unable to hold onto it. Sophomore Louise Atkinson was hunting for the rebound and put the ball in the back of the net. Coffeyville had all the momentum after scoring and you could feel it in the atmosphere that they were going to get another one. 15 minutes after the Lady Red Raven's equalizer, Emily Hannah found herself on the ball for another set-piece. She lined up her free-kick from 36-yards out and struck a rocket that went through a few bodies and ended up in the back of the net. Even though Coffeyville had the lead, they did not take their foot off the gas. They stayed organized in the back, kept high pressing Butler, and continued to attack the goal. The Lady Red Ravens kept the Grizzlies on their own defensive half and finished the game with the 2-1 victory. 

 

Coffeyville's next test will be a road match against an NJCAA ranked #9 Kansas City Kansas Community College.  The match is set for Wednesday, April 21 in Kansas City. Kickoff is set for 5 pm.