OREM, Utah – The Idaho State soccer team bested Utah Valley 2-1 in Orem, Utah Tuesday evening in its first exhibition matchup of the season. The Bengals were extremely efficient in their offensive effort, taking nine total shots with eight on goal.


"This was a great opportunity today for us to try out our new system and personnel," Head Coach Allison Gibson said. "I am pleased with our progress in several areas, but the game also exposed some key areas that we need to work on." 



The Bengals showed a balanced offense as eight players recorded a shot in the game. ISU's first score came in the 11th minute when junior Meaghan Bare connected on a pass from junior Tristen Spooner. Utah Valley responded with a score in the 15th minute, but the Bengals collected the game-winner in the 34th minute when sophomore Brooke Kortekaas connected on a cross from sophomore Makena Bambei and slammed the ball into the back right of the goal.


"We were able to create some nice offensive opportunities with Meaghan and Brooke, and we capitalized on two of those opportunities," Gibson said. 



Senior goalkeeper Shawna Hennings was solid for the Bengals' back line, making seven saves off eight Wolverine shots on goal. 



"I thought Shawna made some nice saves for us today," Gibson said. "She gave our defense some much-needed confidence."


Idaho State returns to Pocatello for an exhibition double-header Saturday, Aug. 12. The Bengals host Salt Lake Community College at 11 a.m.followed by the Idaho State Alumni at 1 p.m. Both games will be held at Davis Field with free admission.