Nov. 14, 2007
Columbia, Mo. - As the Tigers prepare for the NCAA Championship, Nov. 16-18 in Columbia, Mo., MUTigers.com caught up with Mizzou midfielder Meghan Pfeiffer to find out what's on her mind as she enters her first career NCAA tournament game against Southeast Missouri Friday (Nov. 16). Stay with MUTigers.com for more information throughout the week, but in the meantime, enjoy this NCAA Championship Q&A with Meghan!
What was your initial reaction when you learned Mizzou was hosting the first and second rounds?
I was very excited, we have a great opportunity ahead of us, we are a great young team and I think if we play our game and impose our will on other teams like we did in the beginning of the season, success will be no question in the NCAA tournament.
Is it special to play in-state foe Southeast Missouri? Do you know anyone on the team?
It's fun playing other teams from Missouri because its almost a rivalry. Each team is out to prove that they are the best team in Missouri. I indeed know about six of the players on the team and have played against them so I have the upper hand on knowing how certain people play and to inform my teammates about it.
Has this week been any different than the regular season, as far as preparation, excitement level, etc.?
This week has been the same as far as preparing. We still are doing the same things in practice but the excitement level has increased. The intensity at practice has been really high and you can tell we are hungry to get out there and prove that we are true competitors and are ready to win games.
Southeast lead the Ohio Valley Conference in goals per game (2.18)...What will you, as a midfielder, and the entire team, have to do to be successful against them?
As far as them leading in goals, we will not concern ourselves with that stat. As a midfielder I will make sure I stay tight on my man and help the defense as much as possible. As a team we need to put high pressure all over the field so they do not get in their attacking mode. As a team, pressing will be crucial, as it has been all year, and if we do that then them racking up the goals on us is definitely nothing to worry about.
What is your favorite part of the week leading up to the tournament games so far?
My favorite part of the week has been the selection show. I was exciting to see ourselves on ESPNews. Also, practice has been fun. I can tell our team is ready to go by how we practice and everybody talks about it and is so pumped to get out there Friday night.
How important is a good crowd this weekend? What can you say to fans to encourage them to come out?
The crowd is so important. We have to huge games and we have the home field advantage. We can rattle teams simply from fans cheering loud for us. I would encourage the fans to come out and watch us because we have been in the top-25 almost all year long, we have so much talent and we will be playing quality teams.
First Round Action
Just a reminder, Mizzou plays Southeast Missouri at 7 p.m. Friday (Nov. 16) Ticket prices are $7 for adults, and $4 for children and students.