09/08/2024 Columbia, MO- In their September 7, 2024, matchup against Stephens College, Westminster College's women's soccer team secured a commanding 3-0 victory in Columbia, Missouri, improving their record to 1-0-1 for the season. The Blue Jays dominated early, with all three goals coming in the first half.
Fifth year senior, Annalise Beck, opened the scoring at the 15:59 mark with an unassisted goal, her first of the season. Just seven minutes later, freshman Eastin Colyer doubled the lead with another unassisted goal. Westminster kept the pressure on, and in the 29th minute, Claire Sanders, also a freshman, added the third and final goal, assisted by Colyer. Colyer's combined goal and assist put her at 3 points early on in the 2024 season.
Despite a strong defensive effort from Stephens College, led by goalkeeper Sofia Ramos, who made five saves, Westminster's early offensive success proved too much to overcome.
Westminster's goalkeeper, Mia Turner, had an outstanding performance, recording nine saves to keep Stephens scoreless. The Stars put up 11 shots, with 10 of them on goal, but couldn't break through Westminster's solid defense. The Blue Jays outshot the Stars 20-11 and won the corner kick battle 4-2. Both teams displayed physicality, with fouls for both sides and yellow cards called on Stephens, but Westminster's early control of the game sealed the win.
The Lady Jays have kicked off the season with impressive strength, capitalizing on the fresh talent Head Coach Courtney Howe has added to the squad. With 13 new additions to the roster, including 11 dynamic freshmen, the newcomers have made an immediate impact. These freshmen have not only earned spots in the starting lineup but have also commanded significant playing time, playing a crucial role in the team's early success.
The women's soccer team looks to maintain their momentum as they face Washington University in their home opener on Tuesday, September 10th, at 6:00 PM at the Kent and Judith Mueller Stadium.