Blue Raiders Battle To Scoreless Tie At North Texas

DENTON, Texas - Middle Tennessee has gained a great deal of notoriety for its offensive prowess this season, entering the weekend as the third-highest scoring team in the country, but the Blue Raider soccer squad can also get defensive.

Middle Tennessee (9-4-1, 3-1-1) put itself in favorable position in the Sun Belt standings with another defensive masterpiece at North Texas Sunday, coming away with a 0-0 tie in double overtime to remain one-half game out of the conference lead with three games remaining.

"This was a successful weekend for our team and the girls played exceptionally well on what is always a difficult road trip," Middle Tennessee soccer coach Aston Rhoden said. "This game against North Texas was a defensive battle and (keeper) Jenny Manis played well with several big saves, and our defenders had an outstanding game, as well."

Defenders Halley Dawe, Katy Rayburn, Sara Wohlhueter, and Jessica Northcutt, were splendid in controlling the back line, and Manis turned in another solid game with critical saves when North Texas (10-4-1, 3-1-1) was able to get within striking distance. The Blue Raider defense allowed just one goal in two double-overtime games during the weekend to key the successful showing.

"We spend so much time working on our defense and it's paid off all season, especially on this trip," Manis said. "We knew the importance of having two good games this weekend and our team rose to the challenge. It's a good feeling coming back home."

The shutout was the sixth of the season for Middle Tennessee and Manis has been in goal for each of the blankings.

Middle Tennessee will return to action Friday when it plays host to rival Western Kentucky at Blue Raider Field. Game time is 3 p.m.

Follow the Blue Raiders on Twitter @MTAthletics for continued updates.