Central Michigan used the whistle to its advantage Sunday, beating Ball State 2-0 for its ninth win in Mid-American Conference play.
The two teams combined for six cards (five yellow, one red) and 35 fouls in the match.
In the 61st minute, Ball State sophomore midfielder Sarah Orisich was sent off with a red card. Two minutes later, the Cardinals fouled the Chippewas in the box for a penalty kick, which gave the visitors a two-goal lead.
Despite being dominated in the statistics, Ball State (6-10-2, 0-8-2) was never out of the match. Coach Craig Roberts said the team created its best opportunities with 10 players on the field.
"When we went a player down, we raised our play to a whole new level," Roberts said. "The girls were determined to make things happen and go after the results they wanted."
Ball State recorded seven shots and had numerous opportunities to score. For the seventh time this season, the team was shut out.
"Central Michigan is a very reputable team, and we were never outclassed in the game at any point," Roberts said. "We produced so many chances but are still lacking someone who can finish the opportunities."
With only one game left in the MAC regular season, Ball State is still looking to notch a win in conference play. Tournament hopes are gone, but younger players see a chance for another opportunity in this last match.
"We just need to keep pushing and finish strong going into next season," sophomore midfielder Maggie Brown said. "We can go out and show other teams what they have to look forward to playing next season."
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