Women
Saint Xavier wrapped up its homecoming festivities with the women taking on Roosevelt University on Senior Day. On an evening that honored the hard work and dedication by the eight Cougar seniors, Christy Bowgren and Julia Gawlak left their mark with two goals in a 3-0 victory.
Seniors shined on their night as Alex Perry managed her third shutout of the season with six saves. Perry benefited from a relentless Saint Xavier offensive attack. The women totaled 19 shots on goal and kept Roosevelt honest on defense.
The Cougars looked to carry their momentum into a fight against 13th ranked Saint Ambrose University on Wednesday, October 12. Saint Xavier battled valiantly, but ultimately fell 1-0, despite Alex Perry’s 12 save performance.
The Cougars took their collective frustration out on Holy Cross College by cruising to a 7-0 road win on Saturday, October 15. Christina Sperando had two goals on the day, while Brittany Kroening, Hannah Bressner, Karina Saucedo, Andreina Hernandez, and Alexis Espositista-Aliga each joined the fun by beating the Holy Cross keeper.
The women are 4-4 in conference and 4-9-1 overall on the 2016 season. The Cougars next contest is at home against Trinity Christian College on Tuesday, October 18 at 6:00 pm.
Men
With a record of 2-3-2 in conference play, the men needed a strong performance against Holy Cross College in a CCAC matchup to stay relevant in the standings.
A closely contested affair was decided by a clutch goal by senior Peter London as the first half expired. With seconds ticking off the clock, London fielded a cross after a Saint Xavier corner kick and eventually beat the Holy Cross keeper.
The Cougars engaged in a strong defensive battle throughout the day, as Holy Cross managed five shots on 12 overall attempts. Saint Xavier had only four; however, London’s goal was enough to lift the Cougars to victory.
Junior goalie Frank Valle shined in the shutout for Saint Xavier. The win improves their conference record to 3-3-2 on the season and look to build on an impressive victory against Trinity Christian College.
The Cougars next contest will be under the lights at home beginning at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 19.
Mike Rankin
Senior Sports Editor