October 19, 2008

ODU HANDS VCU WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM A 3-0 DEFEAT
Monarchs score twice in first 10 minutes

NORFOLK, Va. – The Virginia Commonwealth University women’s soccer team fell into a deep hole early and was unable to climb out, dropping a 3-0 decision to Old Dominion University on Sunday afternoon.

The Monarchs scored twice in a span of 2 minutes, 30 seconds early in the game and then added another goal just before halftime. ODU improved to 6-1-1 in the CAA and 13-2-1 overall. The Rams are now 4-3-1 in the league and 8-7-1 overall.

ODU finished with 14 shots, seven of which went on goal. VCU managed five shots and only one on goal.

Marilee Mastaler scored her first goal of the season 6:50 into the game. At the 9:30 mark, Janna Pearson got her first goal of the season. Ashley Kukura and Jenni Purdum were credited with assists. ODU added its final tally with just 17 seconds left in the first half. Victoria Johnson got her seven goal of the season with assists from Alyssa Pietrobono and Jodi Knoworski.

Stephanie Power was the only VCU player credited with more than one shot. She had two. Samara Stephen-Dowd was credited with the Rams’ only shot on goal.

The victory by ODU, coupled with James Madison’s overtime victory over William and Mary on Sunday, moved the Monarchs into first place tie in the CAA standings with Hofstra. The Rams currently sit in sixth place.

VCU plays again Friday, when Hofstra comes to Sports Backers Stadium for a 7 p.m. game. The Rams are also home on Sunday at 1 p.m. against Northeastern in what will be their final home game of the regular season.