September 16, 2006

BLUFFTON, Ohio - Falling behind in the first conference match versus women's soccer stalwart Transylvania University (5-0), Bluffton struggled to regain its confidence from the early moments, allowing goals in the 13th and 24th minutes. The Beavers looked vastly improved with the best showing of the season to date, but still failed to develop any good looks at the Pioneer goal. After allowing a third goal in the 34th minute, Bluffton managed to regain respectable play in the second half while limiting the visitors to just two shots on goal. The Beavers, however, mustered just one of their own.  

JESSICA GOOD (Lima/Elida) and ASHLEY BLOOM (Tiffin/Calvert) anchored the back line in the second half and helped the midfield apply adequate pressure on Transylvania's back four. ELYSE BURCKHART (Telford PA/Souderton), ALLISON WHITE (Lima/Shawnee), and MEGHAN FORQUER (North Canton/Green) had frequent runs at the defense but were limited to long-range attempts at goal that were unsuccessful in producing saves as the Pioneer defense limited goalkeeper chances.

Still hampered by injuries that have decimated the team, Bluffton is looking forward to four more injured players rejoining the squad while fielding a team with many that are playing through nagging ailments.

The women's soccer team (0-5) will test its improvement against Ursuline College in a road match at 4 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 18, in Pepper Pike, Ohio.