Rutgers

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Maryland

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PISCATAWAY, N.J. – The Maryland women's soccer team dropped its Big Ten opener, 1-0, to No. 22 Rutgers at Yurcak Field Friday night.

The Terrapins (2-6-1, 0-1-0 Big Ten) gave up an early goal, before creating some chances for the remainder of the match. Maryland's backline combined with sophomore goalkeeper Katelyn Jensen to keep the Scarlet Knights at bay for over 80 minutes.

After an uneventful start, Nicole Whitley gave Rutgers the lead with a free kick from the left side of the box that trickled through traffic in the box and past Jensen. From there, Maryland was able to get into the game and drew a number of long free kicks, but were unable create any chances on those opportunities.

Maryland's best opportunity of the first half came in the 19^th minute. After a foul at the top of the box, sophomore Cassie Phillips unleashed a free kick that sailed just high. The Terps were also unable to capitalize on their two corner kicks in the first half.

In the 59^th minute, redshirt freshman Darby Moore found some space and ripped a 20-yard attempt that went high. The match was briefly halted with 15 minutes remaining due to a power outage, but contest resumed after a 10 minute delay.

Maryland's best chance game in the 80^th minute. Phillips sent in a corner kick that found the head of junior Chelsea Jackson, but the forward's header from the top of the six went high.

Jensen was solid throughout, commanding her backline and snuffing out multiple Rutgers attacks. She ended the match with eight saves.

Maryland returns to action for a two-match home stand, starting with a contest Thursday, Sept. 22 against Illinois at Ludwig Field. Action is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., and the match can be seen live on BTN.

-Terps-