Lady Cavs rout lmmaculata for third straight win

by Jen Yoos

staff writer

Experience proved to be a major factor for the women's soccer team on Tuesday, Sept. 13th when they captured their third victory against Immaculata College. Coach Diane Pierangelli had a great outlook about the game and the team itself. "'It was a warm up for the rest of the league. Immaculata is·a young team which allowed us to work on our teamwork. We also have a lot of our key players back with us this year," she said.

Although it took the women about 20 minutes to score·their first goal, they played extremely well. "We had to adjust to the size of the field," said freshman Siobhan McGonigle. The final scoring was 8 to 0. Once they began to score they simply kept on doing it. "The win was very important for us because it puts us one step closer to the goal of winning the championship. It was not a hard game but it allowed us to let everyone play and also gave us a chance to work on a lot of different aspects of our game," said Junior Jess Ruda. At the half, they were already up 3 to 0. "During the second half, they were able to practice their ball control and passing skills " Pierangelli said. Everything clicked at that point which allowed everyone to get a chance to play she said. There was about 10 minutes left in the game and all eight goals had already been scored.

The team as a whole was key in winning the game. However there were several key players. "Overall, Siobhan McGonigle, a sweeper on defense was the most instrumental player in winning the game, according to Pierangelli. "She holds the strength in our defense and she is an impact player."

"Siobhan is a great leader and athlete, which will enable her to be the future of our team. If needed she could even play up to score goals. I think the best way to describe her would be extremely physical and aggressive."

Several other players were key factors in the winning of the game. Senior Michele Gabrielle was an important player for the defense. Also, Carley Atkinson scored two goals, both from 40 yards back. The other scorers were Erin Barney, Jessica Stork, Megan Hyde, Tiffany Corry and Kelly Hunter. Pierangelli said, "Sophomore

Tiffany Corry has scored in every game so far and is off to a good start for being new to our team this year. Junior Jess Huda held a great impact on the win because she was able to have her third shut out of the year."

Soon the team will battle the defending champions, Beaver College. They will also be playing Eastern College. This wil1 be a good game because they are our rivals said Pierangelli. So far the team is two and zero in their conference.

The team seems to have high hopes for this season and expects the best possible outcome. "Everyone plays well because they play as a team," said Sophomore Melissa Lepouski. Jess Huda expects the best also. "We expect to be one of the best teams in the conference. We have a solid and good defense with a great team chemistry. This wil1 all enable us to go far this year," she said.

Pierangelli expects the best from her team also. She expects them to win the PAC championship. They have won the championship two times before and she believes they can do it again. "With what has happened so far, I believe we will by far be the best team in the conference. If we stay healthy, we definitely have the talent to do it," she explained confidently. The new legislation has been passed now which will enable the team to receive an automatic bid for the NCAA if they win their conference title.