SPRINGFIELD, Mass., October 14, 2006 – Springfield College dropped its second New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference decision in a 1-0 battle against the Smith College Pioneers. The Pride falls to an overall mark of 8-4 (4-2 NEWMAC), while Smith improves to 7-5-1 overall (4-1-1 NEWMAC).

Most of today’s match consisted of a battle in the midfield, as neither team was able to create many scoring opportunities. Springfield College held a 10-3 advantage in shooting opportunities, but only put one shot on the frame of the goal.

Smith College capitalized on its one shot on goal in the 77th minute of play. During a 2-on-1 breakaway, freshman Elsa Rosales placed the ball in the back of the net on a pass from senior midfielder Natalie Sullivan. Then, the Pioneers defense sank deep into the backfield, shutting down the Pride attack during the final 13 minutes of the game.

Goalkeeper for the Pioneers, Lauren Batchel, was forced to make just one save to shut out the Pride in the conference match-up. Batchel’s overall record improves to 4-4-1, as she records her third shutout of the 2006 season.

First-half goalkeeper for the Pride, Sue Jenney (Agawam, Mass.), did not have to make any saves. Her replacement, Amanda Petri (Granby, Conn.), allowed Smith’s solo goal, recording her second loss of the season. Petri’s record drops to 2-2.

The Springfield College women’s soccer team next travels to South Hadley, Mass., on Tuesday afternoon, October 17th, to face off against the Mount Holyoke College Lyons at 4:00 p.m.

published: 10/14/2006