Laura Vinton looking to distribute from the corner
Saturday was a day of firsts for the women’s soccer team at Grace Bible College. In its second year as a varsity team the Lady Tigers secured their first win in program history. GBC battled against the Blue Angels of Mount Mary College for the 3-0 win. The Tigers also posted their first multiple goal game and shutout to cap off a very rewarding day.
“I was so happy for the girls,” stated Coach Vissia after the match. “We’ve been improving since the first preseason practice and it was extremely fulfilling to watch the girls reap the benefits of their hard work. It was especially satisfying for the girls who persevered through a winless season last year but were determined to get this first win.”
The Tigers did a nice job setting the tone early by possessing the ball for a majority of the first half. Joanne Coffey was tripped in the box fifteen minutes into the match and placed her penalty kick accurately giving the Tigers a 1-0 lead. Although GBC sustained pressure on the Blue Angels for much of the half and hit the post two different times, the score read 1-0 at the half. As the second half began the Tigers continued to have scoring opportunities hitting the bar yet another time. Finally, Tina Mattias gave a well played ball from the back to a streaking Laura Vinton who finished with a powerful left footed shot. The final tally of the match came when Cassie Hidalgo beat her defender, crossing the ball to Coffey inside the six. Coffey once again found the back of the net for her second goal of the match. The Tigers outshot the Blue Angels 21-11 and Kerie Rudd made 11 saves in net for GBC. Bree Stowers, Whitney Bunch, Danae Benton, and Becky Stillin all participated in a fine defensive effort helping the Tigers achieve their first clean sheet.
“The girls certainly deserved this win,” said Coach Yon. “They seized the opportunity that was set before them and never looked back. Today was a great win for these girls, the program, and the school in general.”
The Lady Tigers will be at home again next Friday as they attempt to avenge an early season loss against the Trailblazers of Ohio Christian University.
Both sides unite in prayer