Both teams’ reactions were strikingly different.
Multiple UCLA women’s soccer players tackled redshirt sophomore forward Anika Rodriguez when her shot reached the back of the net. Northwestern’s players stopped in their tracks, looking down and realizing the unfortunate truth.
The Bruins registered just one goal throughout the 93-minute bout, but the goal ousted the Wildcats (12-8-3) and sent second-seeded UCLA (17-2-2) into the Sweet Sixteen for the fourth time under coach Amanda Cromwell.
Coming off a game in which the Bruins notched three goals, the offensive presence was there. Through the first half, they garnered an astounding 15 shots.