SMC picks up 7th win over Goshen
By SARAH RYKOWSKI
Sports Writer
In pouring rain and 48 degree temperatures, the Saint Mary's soccer team defeated Goshen College 3-0 on the road Sunday.
"It was really nasty," head coach Jason Milligan said.
Senior captain Katy Barger was pleased with Saint Mary's performance against Goshen.
"They were a decent team, but we dominated the whole game," Barger said.
The Belles evenly spread their 17 shots among the two halves — nine in the first half, and eight in the second. Barger led her team with seven shots.
Barger also contributed the first goal, with an assist from freshman Shawna Jianonni.
"We had good passes and we were able to finish and score," Barger said. "Things went really well for us."
Sophomore Tia Kappahahn scored the second goal, on an assist by Barger.
"I just thought we played really well," Kappahahn said.
Barger cemented her team's victory with a second goal — the team's third. She headed it in after receiving a pass across the goal from Kappahahn.
"It was one of the most beautiful plays," Kappahahn said of Barger's header. "It was our goal of the year."
All of the goals were scored in the first half of the game.
Jiannoni, Heather Muth, Laura Paulen, Liz Coley, Cara Dunbar, Katie Heck and Adrian Kirby also had scoring chances for the Belles.
The Belles are now 7-1-1 for the season, and 1-1 in MIAA conference play.
"Every team that we've played, except Kalamazoo, has played a defensive game," Milligan said.
Kalamazoo College's women's soccer team is the defending champions in the conference.
"Once we get up against teams that come out and attack us, that will open up a lot of space [for us to score]," Milligan said.
Goalie Brie Gershick made two saves in the game. Goshen College only had six shots on goal.
"We have an awesome defensive team this year," Gershick said. "They're making my job extremely easy."
With such a solid defense, the Belles are now working hard in practices to sharpen their offensive skills.
"We've been focusing on defense and position," Milligan said. "Now we are focusing on shooting. It takes time to develop. Once we've established it, it won't be a problem."
Saint Mary's next game is at home on Wednesday at 4 p.m. against Albion College.
"Albion is a conference game," Milligan said. "They will be a pretty good game."
He was also optimistic about the rest of the season.
"We've got lots of good games coming up," Milligan said. "I know we're ready."
All Sports Stories for Tuesday, October 5, 1999
