Ojuka Leads Cougars to Defeat Arizona

TUCSON -- In the first game of the 2003 spring soccer season, junior, Lydia Ojuka led the Cougars with three goals in a 5-1 victory over the University of Arizona.

The Cougars were to play two games on Saturday against the Wildcats, but due to Monsoon type conditions 35 minutes into the first game, the teams were forced off the field for several hours. When play resumed, the teams played four 30-minute periods.

The Wildcats struck first after a scramble in front of the goal off a corner kick, but the Cougars quickly tied the match with a goal by Krissa Campbell who was assisted by Katie Gabbart and Aleisha Rose.

The go ahead goal came soon after by Lydia Ojuka with assists from Rose and Campbell. From that point on BYU held control of the periods with solid possession.

Ojuka finished the match with three goals and Rose tallied three assists. An additional goal was scored by Terra Bigelow. Freshman goalkeepers Natalie Evans and Meredith Simmons saw their first game minutes in a Cougar uniform.

The Cougars held strong with great defensive team performance not allowing Arizona many striking opportunities. Head coach Jen Rockwood said, "With some new faces in the lineup, we did a tremendous job against a very fast and athletic Arizona team."

"Everyone on the roster was able to get significant minutes and valuable game experience," said Rockwood. "The spring season is crucial to the development of our players and so important for the preparation for next Fall."