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The University of Cincinnati women's soccer team defeated Houston, 1-0, on the road to extend their unbeaten streak to seven matches.
Sophomore Julie Gavorski, who sat out the last three weeks due to a shoulder injury, returned with a bang as she netted the Bearcats' (6-2-4, 1-0-1 American) game-winning goal in the 64th minute.
Freshman Tiffany Huber crossed in a pass from the end line, and it found the head of sophomore Kelsey Parrinello on the back post. Parrinello then headed the ball into the center of the box, where Gavorski flicked in the lone goal of the match.
Redshirt junior Natalie Smith posted her third shutout of the season to garner the win over the Cougars. Smith grabbed one save while UH was held to just three total shots by the Bearcats' defense.
// GOAL SCORING SUMMARY
64' - CIN - Huber beat her defender to the end line and crossed the ball to the far post. Parrinello met the pass with her forehead and speared the ball towards the center of the 6-yard box to Gavorski. The sophomore was there to flick the ball inside the back post.
// STAFFORD'S STANCE
"We knew from the energy expanded on Thursday night in Dallas that today would be a bit ugly," said head coach Neil Stafford. "It was all about a relentless grind to see out the game and get the three points. To see us dominate in shots and possession in the second half speaks volumes about the players mentality."
"My respect for the players has gone to another level. Their commitment to graft this season has seen us improve our brand immensely. We still have a ways to go but seeing our hard work be greater than our talent is exciting for everyone involved in the program, especially our fans."
// MATCH NOTES
- For the first time since 2008, the Bearcats have gone unbeaten in seven consecutive matches during the same season.
- For the first time since 2002, UC is unbeaten in American Athletic Conference play after the first weekend (2002 - 1-0-1).
- Gavorski's goal was her second of the season and eighth of her career.
- Cincinnati has posted six shutouts through the first 11 matches.
// NEXT WEEKEND
The Bearcats return to Gettler Stadium next weekend for a matchup with USF on Friday, Oct. 2 and UCF on Sunday, Oct. 4.