Zia soccer downs Highlands

LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Freshman forward Samantha Lawrence scored on a rebound of senior forward Megan Dozier’s shot in the 78th minute on Tuesday, lifting the Eastern New Mexico University women’s soccer team past New Mexico Highlands 1-0.

The Zias (4-4), who snapped a three-match losing streak, won despite Highlands’ 18-5 advantage in shots, including 10-2 in shots on goal. Junior goalkeeper Stephanie Sanchez earned the shutout in net for ENMU.

Zias coach Travis McCorkle said the win was much-needed with rival West Texas A&M coming up in a Lone Star Conference clash on Saturday in Canyon.

“We’re trying to learn a new system,” McCorkle said. “Hopefully, (the win) gives us some confidence going into West Texas. They’re one of the strongest teams in the conference, and we’ll have to play well.”

The match was played on Highlands’ turf football field, which could help the Zias on Saturday since they will be playing on WT’s Kimbrough Stadium football turf.