Aug. 25, 2002
St. Louis, Mo.-The University of Missouri women's soccer team hoped to find some redemption against Michigan in its season opening exhibition game today. In their last match-up in 2000, the Wolverines devastated the Tigers with a soggy 7-0 victory during a downpour in Ann Arbor, Mich. Despite outshooting Michigan 14-10, Mizzou was unable to claim its sought after reprisal and fell 2-1.
Michigan put itself on the board first in the game scoring a hat trick goal in the middle of the first half. Forward Abby Crumpton launched a wide shot from the far-left side of the field. Missouri goalkeeper Megan Duncan deflected the shot into the back of a Tiger defender and rebounded the ball into the MU net.
The Tigers didn't let the mistake go unanswered for long as the veteran duo of Shea Swoboda and Adriene Davis returned just minutes later with a goal of their own. Swoboda crossed a low pass inside the goal box where Davis beat a Wolverine defender for a lighting shot from inside two yards.
The heat of the day took its toll in the game as both teams fatigue began to show. The Tigers' involuntary summer training regimen proved valuable as Mizzou continued to find renewed efforts across the field. Changes in the 2002 lineup, including redshirt freshman Angela Furin serving as Mizzou's stopper and sophomore Ashley Gibbs' permanent position on the defensive line, were also highly effective. The Tigers' most impressive signature however was its trade mark speed. Ever increasing his arsenal of multi-cylinder athletes, Head Coach Bryan Blitz has put together another physical and aggressive squad for the 2002 season. Adding to the Tigers' already fast paced line-up, including Missy Peabody and Carrie Crossett, Mizzou brings increased thrust from freshmen Erica Pusch, Jennifer Nobis and Kyle Wilson.
Even despite the advantage of speed and stamina, the Tigers were unable to curb Michigan and gave up a second goal to Stephanie Boyles, on an assist by Crumpton, late in the second period. The goal was followed by intense efforts, but Mizzou was unable to claim the victory against a tough Wolverine team.
Missouri looks to polish up its rough spots with a week of practice before the 2002 regular season begins. Mizzou hosts the Nike Tiger Invitational next weekend, Fri., Aug. 31 and Sun., Sept. 1. The Tigers welcome Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky to Columbia, to kick off the year. Games begin at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m., with Mizzou playing the late games both nights.