The Racers’ defense looked stout in their first Missouri Valley Conference matchup of the season  this past Sunday, when the Missouri State University Bears traveled to play the Racers. 

The Bears entered the contest with a record of 5-1-2. Like the Racers, Sunday’s game was the Bears’ first conference game of the season. 

Before this match, the last time these two teams met was the MVC Championship last season, the last game of last season for both teams. The Racers lost the championship game 1-0 and came in second place in the conference tournament.

The Bears attempted 12 shots on Sunday, six in the first half and six in the second. They were unable to find the net, though, as Racers freshman goalkeeper Griselda Revolorio held Missouri State scoreless.

Murray State was held scoreless as well, attempting 14 shots in the matchup. Seven shots were taken in the first half, and seven more were taken in the second. 

Revolorio earned six saves in Sunday’s tie with the Bears; she played the entire game. Sophomore midfielder Mary Hardy attempted four shots, three of which were on goal. 

Sophomore defender Megan Wilson attempted four shots as well, with two of them on goal. Senior midfielder Audrey Henry and sophomore forward Sydney Etter took two shots each; they each had one shot on goal. Freshman defender Kate Stordy attempted two shots, neither on goal. 

Holding the reigning MVC champions scoreless through 90 minutes of play is a good sign for Murray State moving forward. If the Racers can find their rhythm offensively and maintain the intensity on defense that they showed on Sunday, they could stir up the MVC. 

Murray State’s next game will be at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 21 in Nashville, Tennessee, when the Racers face the Belmont Bruins. If you aren’t able to make it to the Racers’ first conference away game of the season, you can watch it on ESPN+.