Aug. 28, 2004

LAS VEGAS - Two first half goals just three minutes apart lifted No. 17 Kansas to a 2-0 win over UNLV in the season opener for both teams in collegiate women's soccer action on Saturday night from Peter Johann Field. Neither team seemed to take control in the beginning of the game, but Kansas started to take advantage of its quickness as the first half wore on. Kansas scored the first goal of the night at 27:54 when Caroline Smith got into the box and redirected a shot from Rachel Gilfillan past Jenna Huff into the right post, as Huff was out of position after playing against the first shot. Just over four minutes later the Jayhawks struck again, as Jessica Smith sped down the right side, and after taking a pass from Lauren Williams, sent a blast from 10 yards out into the left corner for a 2-0 advantage at the 31:06 mark. The Rebel defense held strong for the rest of the game, but couldn't manage to find the back of the net themselves, as they were outshot 13-5 for the game. Kansas goalie Meghan Miller posted four saves to earn the shutout, while Huff finished with five saves and two goals allowed for the Rebels. In the first game of the afternoon, Long Island (1-0) posted a 1-0 victory over Utah Valley State, when Jackie McCormick scored on a shot that skipped off the ground but under Wolverine goalkeeper Amberlee Nelson at the 46:15 mark. The Blackbirds won despite being outshot 14-6 for the game. UNLV will next take on Long Island on Monday at 7 pm at Peter Johann Field.