CHICAGO, Ill. – Three second half goals, including a Katia Cardaba brace, propelled FDU (6-5-3, 6-0) to their sixth straight victory on Sunday afternoon. The Knights defeated Chicago State (2-7-5, 0-4-2) by a score of 4-0.

"Chicago State came out strong and pushed us back a little," said head coach Eric Teepe. "I think as the game went on, we gathered our footing. Then, their red card and our penalty kick allowed us to take complete control. In the second half we showed our dominance and closed the game out. Now, we have to be ready for the challenge of Central Connecticut."

Chicago State did take the first three shots of the match, but a red card in the 25^th minute flipped the momentum. Less than two minutes later, FDU drew a foul in the Cougars' box and earned a penalty kick. Ana Salas converted from the spot for her third goal of the season and put FDU ahead 1-0.

The Knights dictated play for the rest of the half and took a 1-0 lead into the break.

FDU's offense kicked into gear in the second half. Cardaba's first goal started the scoring barrage in the 55^th minute, which was assisted by Salas. Just 68 seconds later, Marina Burzaco delivered her sixth goal of the year and extended her point streak to eight matches. Cardaba put the exclamation point on the match with her second goal in the 65^th minute.

This performance is the third brace of the season for Cardaba, who now leads the team with seven goals. All of her goals have come in conference play.

"Katia was a focal point again for us, so it was good to see her get two," continued Teepe.

In another dominant effort, FDU outshot Chicago State 31-3. It is their fifth conference game with at least 20 shots. They have also held each NEC opponent to under ten shots.

After six matches, the Knights sit atop the NEC table with 18 points. They are a point ahead on LIU, with a game in hand.
 

What's Next

The Knights are return home this Thursday, October 16, to host Central Connecticut. The match is scheduled for a 4 p.m. kickoff. Read Full Article