CU splits points with K-State in Big 12 opener

Buffs midfielder Reagan Kotschau delivers a corner kick in the Big 12 opener. (Photo by Aspen Doust/Sko Buffs Sports)

The Colorado Buffaloes (6-1-2, 0-0-1 Big 12) drew 0-0 with the Kansas State Wildcats (5-1-2, 0-0-1 Big 12) on Thursday night in a defense-heavy game that only saw a combined six shots on target.

Through the first 20 minutes, it was clear that the bout would be hard-fought. Both backlines easily dispossessed attackers and made it difficult to produce shots. 

In the 24th minute, reigning CU Female Athlete of the Year, keeper Jordan Nytes passed a ball straight to K-State forward/midfielder Gabby Demers, who blasted the shot off the crossbar, nearly catching the Nytes out of her net.

Colorado’s best chance of the night came five minutes later after leading goalscorer, defender Hope Leyba headed a cross towards goal, but was denied by Kansas State keeper Maddie Sibbing.

Heading into halftime the game was level and neither squad had done enough to take the lead.

The second half produced no shots on target for either squad. What little offense CU generated came through the feet of forward Emerson Layne. On the night, Layne produced six shots, one of which was on goal.

The highlight of the game was the Buffs defense led by Faith Leyba and Caley Swierenga. The unit only allowed one shot on target all game. The defenders made it an easy night at the office for Nytes who only needed to make one save. 

“We played well defensively,” Colorado head coach Danny Sanchez said following the draw. “They didn't give them anything.”

On the other side of the pitch, the offense struggled heavily. Its high-flying style that had blown past teams at the beginning of the season made things difficult for itself all night. 

“We have to sit back and evaluate how we prepared for this match because for whatever reason we weren’t ready to go,” Sanchez said. “There wasn't enough composure. There wasn't enough leadership on the field to set on the ball and make good decisions.” 

The Buffs will host the Iowa State Cyclones (4-1-2, Big 12 1-0) on Thursday. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. MT (ESPN+).