An intense physical matchup featuring an early defensive lapse and missed scoring opportunities forced the Michigan women’s soccer team to bounce back defensively against in-state rival Michigan State.

After conceding a goal in just the second minute of play, the Wolverines (5-7-2 overall, 2-3-2 Big Ten) failed to break even against the 18th-ranked Spartans (7-2-5, 4-0-3), ultimately falling 1-0 despite a resolute recovery on defense.

From the opening whistle, Michigan State came out firing on all cylinders. Its first attack paid off immediately when a Michigan defensive mistake left a Spartan attacker unmarked with a clean look at goal. Michigan State defender Renee Watson calmly slotted the ball past Wolverines senior goalkeeper Sophie Homan to take the lead in the second minute.

Desp

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