April 28, 2008

QUEENS, N.Y. - The St. John's women's soccer team concluded its spring season on a successful note at the Columbia Tournament this weekend, tying Princeton, 0-0, and defeating Columbia, 1-0, on Saturday afternoon.

It was a defensive battle in game one of the tournament for STJ, as neither team broke the stalemate. Princeton was strong offensively and had some chances in the contest, but the Red Storm defense came up with timely stops, especially Rebecca Capinera in goal.

"The difference in the game was that our defenders were forced to react at speed," head coach Ian Stone said. "Princeton was athletic and technical. Defenders Tara Mendoza, Jacklyn James, Courtney Curby and Jessica Hnatiuk coped well with the Princeton attack, and on the rare occasion they were beaten, Rebecca Capinera was there with two big saves."

After the scoreless tie in game one, the Red Storm rebounded to conclude the tournament with the 1-0 victory over host Columbia. Five minutes into the second half, Curby found the back of the net and scored the only goal of the contest. Off a Hnatiuk throw in, Amanda Santos flicked the ball to Curby, who headed the ball into the bottom of the net.

"I thought we combined solid defensive play with improvement in controlling the tempo of the game," Stone said.

The Red Storm had a successful spring campaign and posted a record of 4-1-2 during competition.

"We have accomplished a great deal over the spring season," Stone said. "Our team has improved greatly in the tactical side of the game. I'm also very impressed with our balanced offensive attack. Eight different players scored goals, and it's important that we get goals from different players since it makes us less predictable on offense."