London ON - With a 3-0 record coming into this afternoon's game, the Western Mustangs took on the Brock Badgers in their first home game of the 2024 season.   

Despite maintaining control and out chancing the Badgers, the Mustangs were unable to get on the scoreboard, resulting in a 0-0 finale.   

From the opening whistle, Western dominated the play and controlled the pace of the game. Collectively, the team quickly closed down the opposing players and limited the Badgers time and space on the ball.   

The Mustangs midfielders did an exceptional job of getting open and being an option for their teammates to make outlet passes to. They constantly found gaps in the Badgers defensive shape, allowing Western to easily build from the back up the field and generate many strong opportunities to find the back of the net.   

Brock built momentum and maintained more control as the first half progressed, resulting in a 0-0 game heading into halftime.   

Western had many solid scoring opportunities to begin the second half of the game, but they were unable to capitalize.   

Mustang player Reese Fowler created excellent chances for her teammates by taking beautiful corner kicks and placing the ball nicely into the Badgers' box.   

Mackenzie Bilotta had five shots on the net, leading the Mustangs in the shot department; however, none were able to get past Badgers goaltender Shae Mitchell. 

In the final minute of regular time, it seemed as though Western was about to take the lead, but a diving save from the Badgers defender and rebounded shots that unfortunately did not make it past the goal line were enough to keep the game even through 90 minutes.  

"We are not overly happy with the outcome, but we're definitely happy with our effort," said Mustangs midfielder Nathalie Hoppe. "We were first to the ball and won our individual battles; we just needed to finish our chances. But overall, I know the girls give it everything, so I think we can be proud of that."   

The Western Mustangs will travel to Hamilton, ON, on Friday (Sept 13) to take on the McMaster Marauders. Kickoff will be at 6:00 PM.