WOMEN'S SOCCER DEFEATS MVNU WITH STIFLING DEFENSIVE EFFORT

MOUNT VERNON, OH - Women's soccer (1-0) earned its first win of the season, defeating Mount Vernon Nazarene (1-1) 1-0. Rochester's defense provided no room for the Cougars to establish any momentum, and that defense would turn into plenty of offense for the Warriors with many shots on goal.

Rochester immediately established the tone, with Kaylah Joyce kicking a shot on goal in the first 18 seconds of the game. The Warriors relentlessly attacked early, with three more shots including two on goal from Olivia Howes and Samantha Johns in the 11th minute.

The Warrior's defensive pressure gave the Cougars plenty of fits, with defenders Isabella Ames and Alyssa Romatz intercepting multiple passes. Defense converted into offense when sophomore Kennedy Fraser connected with Samantha Springer on a cross for goal in the 18th minute.

The attacking continued after the goal, with the Warriors hardly giving up ground on their side of the pitch. Midfielders Karen Barry and Mya Freeland added two more shots on goal, and Rochester entered halftime with no shots allowed on goal.

The Cougars managed to get a few looks at goal in the second half, with freshman Naomie Tatrou saving a direct shot in the 67th minute. Despite that effort, Rochester's defense continued to strengthen.

With the back line making plays on the ball, Rochester continued to get looks at goal, with Springer continuing to force saves from MVNU's goalkeeper. The Warriors continued to intercept passes, with junior Dillon Sharp halting an attack down the middle from the Cougars.

Rochester would face a close call at the end of the second half when MVNU got an attack going near the box, but Tartou made another great save to ensure the win for the Warriors.

UP NEXT

The Warriors will travel to face defending NAIA National Champion and current NAIA #1 Spring Arbor on Sept. 6 at 7:00 PM. 

Hussein Murray - RU Athletic Communications

Featured Image: Alex Stewart - MVNU Athletics