The University of Arizona soccer team (7-8, 2-5 in Big 12) looks to host No. 12 Texas Tech University (11-1-2, 5-0-2 in Big 12) on Sunday, Oct. 19, at noon at Murphey Field at Mulcahy Soccer Stadium.
In Arizona’s most recent game against BYU, the Wildcats suffered their fourth consecutive loss, falling 3-2 to the Cougars.
History vs. Texas Tech
The Wildcats hold four wins over the Raiders, compared to TTU’s two victories. Additionally, the programs have seen four ties over the years. Their first matchup dates back to 1994, granting Arizona a 3-1 win. The most recent matchup held in Tucson in September 2023, resulted in a 1-1 tie for the teams. With the Wildcat’s unfortunate losses in recent conference play, this game could be the turning point they need for the remainder of their season.
Raiders to watch
Tom Stone enters his 18th season as head coach of Texas Tech, serving as the winningest coach in Raiders’ soccer history. Notably, he is the only coach to have led the team to the NCAA tournament. Stone has sent his players into decorated careers, earning awards like Goalkeeper of the Year, Defender of the Year and Freshman of the Year. Stone’s success this season is another impressive marker in his career.
Taylor Zdrojewski, junior forward, stands at third in the Big 12 for goals with 10 so far this season. On top of that, she leads the conference with 50 shots and falls fifth in the conference for shots on goal with 19. Zdrojewski has had four game-winning goals for the Raiders and leads their stat line with 22 points. As a consistent starter for Texas Tech, Zdrojewski’s presence up top will be dangerous against the Wildcats’ backline.
Macy Blackburn, leading the conference with nine assists, is another key player for the Raiders this season. As a redshirt senior, Blackburn has earned her success with the Raiders being named All-time Assist Leader in TTU’s program history. Notably, she’s added 3 goals to the Raiders season with 11-of-19 shots on goal. Blackburn’s connection with Zdrojewski, having assisted four of her forward’s goals, is undeniable on the pitch.
Wildcats to watch
Fourth season head coach Rebecca Moros looks for an upset against the Raiders in this game. Moros has been putting the pieces together this season, struggling against tough conference competitors and finding success over others. Moros’ history in the soccer world, a renowned player at Duke University as well as an impressive player in the National Women’s Soccer League, has coupled with her coaching abilities for the Wildcats this season.
Jessica Bedolla, sophomore forward, found the Wildcats’ first goal of the game against BYU, putting them back into the match and only down by a single goal. She kickstarted Arizona’s short burst of offensive power which turned the game around and nearly put the Wildcats in the lead. For the season, Bedolla has had 4 goals for the season, shooting 7-of-13 shots on goal.
Sophomore midfielder Lily Boydstun found the second goal for the Wildcats against BYU. The combination of goals broke the no scoring streak Arizona had been suffering since Sept. 28, against Oklahoma State University. Boydstun has been a key piece in the Wildcats’ connection through the midfield, earning three assists for the season.
Follow the Daily Wildcat on Instagram and Twitter/X
