Monday, February 22, 2010

Week #1: Eagles off to a Great Start!

The Eagles began the 2010 season on Saturday as they took on Bryant University in Rhode Island. The team was eager and excited to put into place all that it had been working on for so many months. Saturday marked only the third time the team has played outside since October, but that did not seem to slow anyone down.

With exceptional conditioning and strength, along with great chemistry, the Eagles put forth a great effort and came out on top 20-4. Many things went right on Saturday, but there is still much more to do as we begin to face tougher and tougher teams down the stretch. Nonetheless, everyone is pleased with the season’s first performance and hope it is a sign of great things to come.

Freshman Brooke Blue had a standout performance in her first career game wearing the maroon and gold. With five goals (on six shots) and one assist on the day, she certainly found her rhythm and hopefully will take great confidence from this game heading into the season. Senior tri-Captain Lauren Costello also had a strong performance with a 100% shooting percentage (3 goals on 3 shots), several key assists, and excellent leadership for 60 minutes.

Junior defensive midfielder Jill Rekart also had an exceptional performance. With several key interceptions, many ground balls, a couple key draw controls, and two goals, she played with poise and confidence as she helped guide a young, inexperienced, yet talented, team.

The coaches were particularly pleased with the team’s shooting percentage (20 for 32), and, of the 16 goals not coming from 8ms, there were nine assists. In addition, the defense held Bryant scoreless during key moments in the beginning and end of each half and also caused several key turnovers sending the momentum in our direction. Overall, the team will look to improve on Saturday’s play in a variety of areas as it prepares for a tougher Canisius squad.

Thanks to all who were there to support us on Saturday and who sent well-wishes beforehand – we look forward to seeing many of you on Friday at 3:00pm as we take on Canisius for our first home game of 2010.