The Sun Devils started the first half strong, with aggressive defending against OSU’s long switches and spreading the field on offense. However, quick passes from OSU’s junior midfielder Arden Holden and senior forward Sammy Edwards managed to deconstruct Arizona State’s back line putting the Buckeyes up 1-0 six minutes into the game.
The Sun Devils kept up their momentum regardless of the early goal and displayed eager tenacity creating chances off of set pieces and especially using the width of the field. Junior transfer Jemma Purfield played a huge role moving the ball up field for the Sun Devils.