Hoefs scores double-overtime winner against Lafayette as Loyola women’s soccer advances to Patriot League semifinals

Hannah Hoefs ’20 scored the game-winning goal in a 1-0 double-overtime victory against Lafayette on Tuesday, Nov. 5, propelling the Hounds into the conference semifinal round. Hoefs was named Patriot League Midfielder of the Year earlier the same afternoon, and last night, she solidified her status as the best midfielder in the conference in 2019.

The Greyhounds received six corner kicks compared to Lafayette’s three. Loyola goalkeeper Paige Sim ’23 had three saves for the game. Ariel Tillman ’22 assisted on Hoefs’ game-winner.

The game started off strong, with both the Greyhounds and Jaguars clocking in multiple shots during the first half. Even though both teams had 13 shots by the end of the game, the Greyhounds certainly had the better of those chances with multiple shots just missing or hitting the post. 

Beth Eversman ‘20 hit a crossbar with her shot in the first half, and Sarah Bayer ‘22 did the same in the closing minutes of regulation. Even Hoefs hit the pipe with a shot just minutes before scoring the game-winner.

All 90 minutes of regular play ended with no score. As a result, the Greyhounds found themselves entering overtime. The first overtime period was uneventful, with Lafayette clocking in two shots. Neither team could find the back of the net. 

Loyola started off the second overtime period on their front foot, getting the Jaguars back onto their heels. Finally, in the 107th minute, Arielle Tillman ’22 maneuvered through Lafayette’s defense and fed the ball to Hoefs, who fired it over the keeper from 35 yards out, sending Loyola to the semifinals of the Patriot League Tournament for the first time since 2015.

Featured Image Courtesy of Loyola Athletics.