Flower named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week

IU women’s soccer senior goalkeeper Shannon Flower was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Monday by the Big Ten Conference.

It was the second time this season Flower has earned the honor.
 
Last week, Flower recorded a pair of shutouts against Xavier and Minnesota.

Flower had four saves against a previously undefeated Xavier team Wednesday in IU’s 3-0 win.

After the game, IU Coach Amy Berbary said Flower was key in the win.

“She was big time,” Berbary said.

Saturday’s Big Ten opener against Minnesota proved to be a defensive duel between Flower and Gopher goalie Tarah Hobbs.

Hobbs recorded nine saves but was beaten by freshman midfielder Veronica Ellis for a goal in the 69th minute.

The Hoosier defense held the Gophers to nine shots on the night. Flower made two saves on the night to preserve the win.

Senior midfielder Lisa Nouanesengsy was happy to have Flower behind her, preserving the 1-0 lead.

“She had some good saves,” Nouanesengsy said. “She was pretty active. I’m pretty proud of her for getting another shutout. That goes for the entire defense also helping her out.”

Flower currently leads the Big Ten in goals against average (0.22), save percentage (0.917), goals allowed (2) and shutouts (7).

Her next shutout will put her in a tie for most single season shutouts in IU program history with former Hoosier goalie Ashley Davis.

— Sam Beishuizen