LAWRENCE, Kan. - The Drake women's soccer team earned a scoreless draw against Kansas Thursday evening in double overtime to open its 2021 season.  
 
The Bulldogs went into the match with an 0-3 record against the Jayhawks, but the two teams had not met since 2009.  

"This was such a disciplined performance from the team. The growth we have shown in the last two weeks is tremendous, especially as a unit defensively. Kansas had a lot of the ball and chances tonight," said head coach Lindsey Horner. 

The Jayhawks maintained possession most of the match, forcing senior goalkeeper Kelsie Stone to face 19 shots, all of which were successfully defended. Kansas was led by Kailey Lane, Raena Childers, and Shira Elinav, who all registered three shots.  

Four Jayhawks registered two shots on goal, Childers being one of them.  

Stone recorded 10 saves, the second-most of her career. She tied the school record with 14 last season against Valpo.  

Horner said, "In the second half when they started driving out of midfield with the ball, they really tested our ability to recover for each other, but for the most part we kept them to chances from wide areas and tough angles. However, Kelsie absolutely saved us a few times with some outstanding saves. I'm really pleased with our work rate and level of sustained focus tonight."

Senior Megan Valenzuela and junior Delaney Goertzen led the Bulldogs' defensive efforts, playing all 110 minutes. Both found themselves in the center of the Jayhawks' offensive strides and kept KU from finding the back of the net.  

In the 83rd minute, senior Alison Walls put a cross in the box that gave freshman Hallie Peak an attempt to find the net. However, Peak's header went over the crossbar. Peak was one of two Bulldogs to record a shot on goal.  

After regulation ended, the Bulldogs were able to register one shot in the 20 minutes of overtime. Kansas was able to earn three shots but were unsuccessful in getting past Stone in the net to give the Bulldogs the season-opening draw.  

"This is a great start to the season, and while we have some exhausted players, unfortunately the games don't get easier in the near future. Sunday will be another big test for us on the road," said Horner.

The Bulldogs remain on the road to continue the season as they take on Creighton Sunday, Aug. 22 in Omaha, Neb. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.