Spring Break
Women's soccer team loses 1-0 in season finale
Anthony Antinore
Issue date: 11/6/09 Section: Sports
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The contest marked the final time seniors Jackie Barrett, Caley Burke, Alicia Jiulianti and Carly Snyder would take the field wearing blue and gold.
The game's lone goal was scored unassisted by Delaware's Stacie Dulkis in the 58th minute. The Blue Hens were able to hold the lead throughout stoppage time even though Drexel increased its offensive attack during the final five minutes of its season.
Even though Delaware was able to outshoot the Dragons 17-7, Drexel keeper Nicole Sinclair faced only shots four on goal the entire match. Delaware keeper Annie Bevan recorded the shutout for the Blue Hens.
Drexel's overall record was not very impressive this year and their play in the conference wasn't what the team had hoped for either. However, the team did record a big win early in the season against then No. 20 Pittsburgh by a score of 1-0.
Coach Ray Goon knows the team's performance was below average for the season, but he feels it is important to look at the positives, especially for such a young group of players.
"Our consistency, especially within the conference, was a big positive for our team this year," Goon said. "Also, a large portion of our returning nucleus received quality playing time throughout the season."
The experience many of the returning players gained this year should pay dividends next year. Snyder feels the sky is the limit for this talented team going into the next couple seasons.
"There is so much potential with the returning group," Snyder said. "They are very talented [and] have the ability to be one of best teams to ever play at this school."
For seniors like Snyder, their last game is not just about playing soccer, but also an opportunity to recall the various relationships formed with her teammates. For four years these seniors have practiced, played and hung out with their teammates almost everyday.
"I am going to miss playing as it is something I have done since I was five," Snyder said. "It will be difficult to wake up and not have practice, something I have been accustomed to for so long. I have made some great friends, so not playing with them and seeing them so often will be a change."
As much as Goon would like to start looking forward to coaching his more experienced team next season, he cannot help but think about how important his seniors have been to his team.
"Losing seniors is always difficult. They've invested a lot of time and energy into our program and we are very grateful for that," Goon said.
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