April 24, 2008

CINCINNATI --- -

The Xavier University women's soccer team will conclude the Spring season with a 1 p.m. exhibition match this Saturday against crosstown rival Cincinnati at the Xavier University Soccer Complex.

Xavier has compiled a 2-2-3 record this Spring against a tough schedule, including a 2-1 loss to perennial national power Notre Dame on April 27.

"Our goal for the Spring was to find roles for our players and where they best fit in our scheme," said head coach Alvin Alexander. "We placed a heavy emphasis on the defensive end and keeping the ball out of our net. We have improved and made a big step forward as a team, especially our maturity. I think that showed in our Notre Dame match when we fell behind 1-0 early but came back to tie the game and battle to the end. We have worked hard and played hard as a team this Spring. I have been able to move players around to see them in different positions. It has been a very productive Spring season."

This Spring sophomore Ali Nellis has led the Musketers with five points, scoring two goals and contributing an assist.  "She has played the best soccer in her time here at  Xavier," Alexander commented.  Another player who has excelled this Spring is sophomore Brittany Green. "Brittany  has been our best player this spring both in practice and in games," said Alexander. "She has set  the tone for our team and it goes beyond her stats of one goal and one assist."

There are a number of players that have enjoyed a strong season, including freshman Carlyanne Wenzel, who has scored a pair of goals. Alexander noted that the defense has been strong, thanks in great part to "outstanding goalkeeping from (sophomore) Kelly Farrell. (Junior ) Sara Doutt is healthy again and has been outstanding in the center-mid and (senior) Carissa Gilbert has given us great leadership in the center back position. I could go on and on with the players that have played well this Spring, including (junior) Christine Chuck, (freshman) Rachel Mason and (sophomore) Loren Marshall."

Two other key cogs on this squad have played well and recently were honored at the team's annual banquet for their standout play in the Fall season. Junior Melissa Zimmerman was named Team MVP while freshman Kaitlyn McGoldrick was named as the freshman Team MVP.