Women’s Soccer
Following a hard-fought performance with Cornerstone University, a game in which Alex Perry managed 19 saves in a double overtime tie, Saint Xavier continues to search for answers on the pitch. With a record of 0-5-1, the Cougars are doing what they can to improve each week, in an effort to make noise in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference this season.
Saint Xavier traveled to Davenport University in Michigan on Saturday, September 10, and struggled offensively. Davenport’s stifling defense held the Cougars to just two shots, none of which were on goal, and fell 2-0 in a non-conference match-up. Sophomore Carly Bledsoe finished with nine saves in the losing effort.
Saint Xavier hoped for a better outcome in Mishawaka, Indiana when they faced Bethel College on Wednesday, September 14. After a scoreless first half, the Cougars and Pilots fired up the intensity out of the locker room.
15 minutes after the game’s first tally by Bethel College, Saint Xavier’s Samantha Moran tied the game with her first collegiate goal. The tie was short lived, however, as Bethel responded with a goal of their own and it put them ahead for good.
Saint Xavier lost 2-1 and dropped their record to 0-5-1 on the year. Sophomore Abigail Peppin assisted Moran’s goal, while sophomore goalie Carly Bledsoe finished with three saves.
The women will open conference play Tuesday, September 20 at home against Trinity International University.
Men’s Soccer
Similar to the women, the Saint Xavier Men’s Soccer program is struggling to find its way. The Cougars participated in the Spring Arbor University Tournament, located in Spring Arbor, Michigan, before conference play opens on September 21.
Saint Xavier started the showcase against host school Spring Arbor, and played a competitive 90 minutes. The difference in the contest was Spring Arbor’s relentless offensive attack. Totaling 21 shots, 12 of which were on goal, the Cougars of Spring Arbor were able to top Saint Xavier 2-1.
In the 76th minute, Saint Xavier forward David Rebollar scored the Cougars’ lone tally. Junior goalie Frank Valle finished with nine saves.
Saint Xavier concluded the showcase against Mount Vernon Nazarene University (Ohio) on Saturday, September 10. The Cougars failed to find any offensive production on the afternoon, and fell 1-0.
A long bus trip home allowed Saint Xavier to reflect on its 0-6-0 record overall. The men feel they are getting closer to victories, as their last four games were decided by one goal.
The Cougars have until Wednesday, September 21, as they open conference play against Trinity International University.
Mike Rankin
Senior Sports Editor