COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. - Despite a strong push in the latter stages of the contest, Eastern University Women's Soccer dropped its season opener at Ursinus College 1-0. The Bears scored the lone goal of the match in the 31st minute and held on to that lead the rest of the way.
The Ursinus defense stymied the Eastern offense throughout the evening. The Eagles were held without a shot for the first 68 minutes of the contest as the Bears held the advantage in both possession and field position. Offensively, Ursinus put consistent pressure on the Eastern back line, finishing the match with 14 shots, six of which were on target.
However, the Eagles continued to battle, creating several high-quality scoring chances in the final 15 minutes of play.
Cassie Avenick recorded the Eagles' first shot of the season on a free kick, and
Gabi Hollinger finished with a pair of shots in rapid succession, including one that sailed just wide of the Ursinus net in the 75th minute.
Brynn Rathsam also collected a shot in the 83rd minute, but it was blocked by the Bears' defense.
"It was a physical, direct game that seemed to end with a fair result," Head Coach
AJ Stueck said after the match. "I was proud of our response in the second half, however we know it takes playing every minute to become a championship caliber team."
In her first collegiate action,
Emily Honig put together an excellent performance in net, making three saves on four shots before exiting the contest in the second half. Senior
Grace Schreckengast was flawless in relief, stopping both shots she faced to keep the match within striking distance.
The Eagles will be back in action at Olsen Field on Saturday afternoon where they will face off against Goucher College. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 noon.
"The focus headed into the weekend will be to take better care of the ball, and continue to focus on ways to achieve shutouts as an entire team," Stueck said. "We will also need to get more numbers forward if we are going to create more chances. I am confident the team will continue to train hard, believe in each other, and look to rebound quickly. I believe we have a talented team who is due for a breakout soon."
