Maryland women’s soccer and Navy struggled throughout the entire night to produce much offensively. As the 74th minute approached, it seemed like the match was destined for a scoreless draw as Maryland entered what seemed to be a harmless counter-attack.
Ava Morales’ pass was blocked and deflected right to the foot of Kelsey Smith. Smith then immediately swerved past Navy defenders before rocketing a shot on goal. Her shot was placed perfectly through the near post and soared home past Natasha Stramrood to give Maryland the lead.
Unlike its last match where it conceded the tying goal in the 89th minute, Smith’s goal was all Maryland needed.