The UR women’s soccer team rolled past Alfred University on Monday, winning 4-0. The win against the Saxons improved Rochester’s record to 6-0-1, which puts them at the top of the University Athletic Association standings. This game capped a sweep of the Empire 8 teams UR has played thus far, as the ‘Jackets gear up for New York University.
Once again, the women’s soccer team won the game with stellar defense. This marks a notable sixth shutout in seven games played this season.
Coach Terry Gurnett applauded the strong play by the defense. “It has been a total team effort,” she said. “It starts with the forwards and then the midfield. Finally, we have an outstanding back four and a great goalie.”
While the defense continued to demonstrate its dominance, the offense played its part as well, scoring two goals in each half. Sophomore Laura Bojko scored at 14:38 to put Rochester ahead 1-0.
Then, less than six minutes later (20:14), fellow sophomore Kelsey Turley put in a shot in the back of the net and the ‘Jackets never looked back.
To add insult to injury, UR netted a goal off of a penalty kick by senior Angela Heaney. Junior Ali Streeter scored with less than five minutes remaining to make the final score of the game 4-0.
The ‘Jackets established great ball control and the offense was relentless. UR outshot the Saxons a remarkable 29-2 and held a 28-1 advantage in corner kicks. Alfred’s only two shots came in the second half, both by freshman Nicole DePietro.
The team’s hot start is reflected in their season statistics. They have outshot opponents 128-31 and outscored them 15-1.
Leading the team in scoring is junior Laura Morrison, with two goals and two assists. A large part of the team’s success is their depth, as 12 players have tallied either a goal or an assist.
Another bright spot has been junior goalie Molly Leitch. She has amassed 11 saves and a .917 save percentage for the year.
Coming off three straight shutouts and a commanding performance at Alfred University, UR has great momentum as it heads into the heart of the schedule.
On Friday, the team faces its first in-conference game of the season against NYU. Leading up to the game against the Herons, UR is the only undefeated team in the UAA. NYU and Chicago are nipping at the Yellowjackets’ heels, as each has only one loss this season.
“That game will be a good challenge for us,” Gurnett said. “We have to be sharp in practice and we’ll have to execute well on the field.”
Nathan can be reached at hnathan@campustimes.org.Additional reporting by Alex Moeller.
