Freshman Tayla Maddock (Camlachie, Ontario/St. Patrick's Catholic High School) scored her first career goal, lifting the Eastern Michigan University soccer team to a crucial 1-0 victory over Miami University in a Mid-American Conference showdown on Sunday, Oct. 6, at Scicluna Field. This victory positions the Eagles favorably, striving to secure a spot in the upcoming MAC Tournament.
Maddock's decisive goal came in the 38th minute, marking a pivotal moment in a match with limited scoring opportunities. Sophomore Rosalie Takacsy (Orchard Park, New York/Orchard Park) set the goal with a perfectly placed corner kick, allowing Maddock to nod inside the right post. The goal was crucial, as both teams entered the match vying for valuable points in the tightly contested MAC standings.
The Eagles' defense held firm throughout the game, successfully warding off several attempts from the RedHawks, including a near-equalizer that struck the right post in the 66th minute. Redshirt sophomore Ella Holland (Dunwoody, Georgia/Dunwoody/Samford) showcased her skills with three saves, earning her sixth clean sheet.
Regarding overall performance, Eastern Michigan outshot Miami 11-9 and led in corners 7-4. The win improved EMU's record to 5-4-3 (1-1-3 MAC), while Miami fell to 5-3-4 (1-2-2 MAC).
Historical Significance
This victory is especially notable as the Eagles aim to go unbeaten on their home turf through six matches for the first time since the 1999 team achieved an impressive 10-0-1 record at home. The current squad is also celebrating a milestone with three consecutive shutouts, the first occurrence of such a feat since 2009. Additionally, Holland's six clean sheets this season represent the highest total for EMU since 2018.
Eastern Michigan's victory marked its first home win in October since a 2-1 triumph over the University at Buffalo on Oct. 27, 2019, ending a 13-match winless streak in October home games. Furthermore, the Eagles secured their first home clean sheet in October since a 3-0 victory over Miami on Oct. 18, 2018, snapping a 20-match drought without a shutout at home this month.
Looking Ahead
With the win behind them, the Eagles now set their sights on their next challenge, traveling to Ohio University for a match on Thursday, Oct. 10, at 4 p.m. The momentum from this victory could prove vital as they continue their quest for a successful season.
