The Big Ten season opened with a win for the MSU women's soccer team (5-2-3 overall, 1-0 Big Ten) as they shut out Ohio State 1-0 at home.
MSU head coach Tom Saxton attributed the shutout to the team's continuously strong defense.
"Our forte has to be our defense," Saxton said. "We've got a good number of shutouts already for a season that's just half over."
The game remained scoreless during the first half even though MSU had nine shots on goal.
Scoring opportunities for the Spartans were plentiful, but the team just couldn't capitalize on them.
"It is frustrating when you have so many changes but can't finish, but it's really critical to just stay patient, keep attacking, and stay composed," said senior forward Emma Harris.
Although missing scoring opportunities is disappointing, Saxton remains positive for the games ahead.
"That's kind of a recurring theme for us. We try not to look at it with frustration," Saxton said.
"We feel like if we put ourselves in the same position as many times as we can, then those goals are going to come some days and then some days they're not."
The second half turned the game around as Harris scored with assists by senior forward Dana Voorheis and junior midfielder Jenee Witherspoon.
The goal was the sixth of the year for Harris.
The defense remained ruthless throughout the rest of the game for the Spartans, helping them hang on to the victory.
With 13 minutes left in the game, Ohio State (3-4-2, 0-2-0) had a free kick at the top of the box, but sophomore goal keeper Nicole Galas was able to stop the shot.
"In order to exceed in the Big Ten, we're going to have to maintain a strong defense," Saxton said.
The win against Ohio State is a positive start to the continuing Big Ten season.
"It's so important to win the Big Ten opener, especially at home. It gets you off on a good note," Saxton said. "It keeps the momentum going. The team came ready to play and it was an awesome win for us."
The Big Ten season continues for the Spartans as they travel to West Lafayette, Ind. to battle Purdue at 3 p.m. on Friday.
