The season came to an end on Thursday for Alanna Pennington and the Drake women’s soccer team.
The top-seeded Bulldogs dropped a 1-0 decision to Illinois State in the semifinals of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament at Mediacom Stadium in Des Moines. A late penalty kick in the 85th minute from the Redbirds’ Abby Hall proved to be the difference in a tightly contested matchup.
The Bulldogs thought they had a break early in the contest on a possible goal one minute into the match, but it was ultimately called offsides and negated.
“We knew scoring on Illinois State from the run of play was going to be tough, but the first minute of the game indicated that we might be able to break them down with the goal that was called back,” Drake coach Lindsey Horner said. “I felt we were able to create dangerous moments off corners, throws, and free kicks and maybe that’s how we would find the back of the net. Ultimately, I hate to see such an important game get decided on a late penalty, but such is our sport.
“I think we were all a bit stunned, but our players have so much to be proud of. This was such a special group of people that came together as one outstanding team. They trained hard, were great teammates and made this season fun. Our seniors absolutely put their stamp on our program and I’m so thankful for all they did for our program. Once the sting wears off from today, I hope our players are proud of this season and their individual impact on our success and culture,” she added.
Pennington, a former Ankeny Centennial star, helped Drake to the MVC regular season title in her first season with the Bulldogs after transferring from Western Illinois. Drake finished 9-6-4 overall and 6-2-1 in conference play.
Pennington, a junior midfielder, was one of three Bulldogs named to the all-MVC first team. She helped the Bulldogs to seven shutouts on the season, including five in league play.
Pennington twice was named the MVC Defensive Player of the Week.