Former Neer Ali Ponzer and her NKU Norse soccer teammates had a big night tonight at the NKU soccer stadium. NKU hosted Xavier in the first NCAA Division I contest on the Highland Heights campus. What a great atmosphere at the soccer stadium as the stands were jam packed. Ponzer and the Norse came up a little short as NKU lost in the 98th minute on a golden goal. NKU really looked to be in a position to win the game as they totally outplayed the Muskies in the second half. The first half really was played to about a draw as NKU won the time of possession but Xavier had more shots on goal. Ponzer clearly put way more pressure on the Muskie defense than what was in their comfort zone and certainly looked to be the fastest player on the field. Ponzer took the ball deep into X territory making several crosses that nearly became Norse goals. In the end, both teams wore down but it was X that got the break for the golden goal.
It sure doesn’t seem that long ago when I remember a certain player on my Express team didn’t want to play offense because she didn’t know what to do with the ball when she got near the goal. What a difference now. Congrats to NKU and Ali for their D1 debut tonight as it was just a terrific night for the Northern Kentucky community.
Ponzer giving X D fits.
Ponzer wearing #25 for the Norse.
Shot from 2007.
