Baylan Wysuph breaks down Colorado's 1-0 victory over Denver.
The Colorado Buffaloes (5-1-0) and Denver Pioneers (4-3-0) met for their 30th all-time match-up Thursday night, on a beautiful September evening at Prentup Field.
The Buffaloes were able to pull out the gritty 1-0 victory, with the game-winning goal coming in the 77th minute. Fifth-year senior Shyra James’ free kick was saved and ricochetted to open sophomore midfielder Ava Priest, who was able to rebound it in for the score. Just five minutes earlier, junior co-captain Juliuana Hayward came inches away from scoring the first goal of the game with a shot off the crossbar.
“I knew that rebound was coming, just finished it up,” said Priest when asked about the moment after the game.
Colorado dominated the possession in the first half but was unable to score, as Denver came out sharp in the second half. The Pioneers applied consistent pressure on Buffs goalkeeper Jordan Nytes, who tallied five saves, bringing her season total to 36.
A big piece in the Buffs' win was their ball control, as they had eight corner kicks and out-shot Denver 26-18 throughout the evening.
Priest, who had the game-winning goal was asked about what the Denver rivalry meant to herself and the team. The in-state opponent carries much more weight to Priest and the rest of the team, as six players including Priest are from Colorado.
“It’s arguably the biggest game of the season,” Priest said. “It’s always something we look forward to and prepare for.”
Thursday’s physical win snapped Denver’s four-game win streak, dropping it to 4-3 as the Buffaloes were able to collect their fourth consecutive win and advance to an impressive 5-1 start on the season.
The Buffs get a short rest as they prepare to host the Weber State Wildcats (0-4-3) on Sunday at noon M.T. (ESPN+), going in as heavy favorites to win their fifth match in a row.
Cover photo by Brody Rector/Sko Buffs Sports
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