PHOENIXVILLE, PA – The Valley Forge Christian College womens soccer team dropped their home opener today, Saturday (Sept. 9), to Mary Baldwin College (Staunton, VA) by a final score of 3-0. With today's loss, the Lady Patriots have extended their winless streak to three, early in this 2013 season campaign.
The Lady Patriot defense played very well in the opening several minutes of the game, keeping the Fighting Squirrels from making long runs, and helping to push the ball forward. Mary Baldwin was able to get on the scoreboard in the 23rd minute. The Lady Patriots trailed 2-0 at the half, and did their best to keep up with the quick feet of the Squirrels, but could not get any offense going as they only managed a single shot on goal from sophomore Rachel Stormes today.
Freshman net minder Taniyah Faison played an exceptional game today in her first career start, recording five saves in the process. Several of her saves came on key Fighting Squirrel scoring chances as she helped keep the Lady Patriots within striking distance throughout much of the first half. Faison's highlight of the game was a spectacular set of back to back saves from both sides of the net in the waning minutes of the game.
Head coach Karla Polli stated after today's loss; "Each and every new player is getting better every time they take the field. Freshmen Sorina Corkey and Melanie Brletic played very well today. Our returners are doing a great job with their on-field coaching as well. Elizabeth Swan, Kelli Noecker and Rachel Stormes not only played well today in their own right, but they are leading the newcomers on the field, helping them to become more comfortable with the game."
Up next, the Lady Patriots will look to get back to their winning ways when they host the Wesley College Wolverines (Dover, DE) on Tuesday (Sept. 10). Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 pm.
Go Patriots!
