AVE MARIA, Fla.- The Ave Maria University women's soccer team began the home schedule of the 2022-23 school year in a unique way Tuesday night, as the Gyrenes played to a scoreless draw with the visiting Mustangs of The Master's University from California. The tie marked the first even score for the women's soccer program since the 2017 season, and was the first 0-0 game ever played by an AMU women's soccer team.

The Gyrenes were able to withstand 15 shots from the visiting Mustangs, keeping the score level throughout the contest. The Gyrenes had a few chances to score, with Rachel Dalton having a shot saved in the 16th minute, and fellow sophomore Madelyn Krause doing the same in the 50th minute. Liz Wolf also had an opportunity to score in the second half, dribbling past the goalkeeper, but the Mustang defense was able to close in on her and prevent a shot. 

Tuesday's biggest moment came in the 78th minute, when a bad tackle in the box gave The Master's University a penalty kick opportunity. The Mustangs' Hannah Burke, who attempted eight shots on goal in the contest, stepped to the spot for the attempt, but her shot sailed well above the crossbar. That would prove to be the last, best chance for either team, as the final 12 minutes ticked away to ensure the scoreless draw.

Maddie Samuelson was undoubtedly the standout for Ave Maria on Tuesday night. The fifth year senior stopped all eleven shots that came her way, making her the first player in school history to make more than ten saves in a shutout. It was also the seventh shutout for Samuelson in her three years, tying the career school record set by Francesca Singleton in 2016.

In total, the Mustangs outshot the Gyrenes by a 15-4 margin, including a 12-4 margin in shots on goal. The Mustangs took six shots in the first half, then nine more in the final 45 minutes. The Master's University also had six corner kick opportunities, which were all deftly turned away by the AMU backline. 

There will be little rest for the Gyrenes, who play again less than 48 hours after the home opener's conclusion. Ave Maria will travel across Alligator Alley for a neutral site matchup with the Mountaineers of Eastern Oregon University. The game will be played on the campus of St. Thomas University, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m. The Gyrenes will be back home next Wednesday, battling NCAA Division II Saint Leo University at Gyrene Field.