Ram Page

Issue date: 10/3/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Kimberley Parker, Photographer Freshman Brandy DeBacker gets ready to cross the ball to a fellow teammate.

In a rivalry match against Abilene Christian University, the Rambelles beat the Wildcats 1-0 snapping a two-year losing streak in conference openers.

"The team chemistry is very good," head coach Travis McCorkle said. "Right now, I think it is a really good group."

The 'Belles' aggressive play was key to the victory in what was a defensive battle between the two opponents. Both sides combined for 21 fouls, 13 of which were committed by the 'Belles.

Junior Skylar Searles scored the 'Belles' lone and winning goal in the 49th minute of play lifting the team past the Wildcats. Searles also registered three total shots for the 'Belles including her game winner.

Sophomore goaltender and University of North Texas transfer Melanie Peterson also had a huge day for the 'Belles in her first shutout of the season. Peterson was able to fend off all 10 shots by the Wildcats in her first start in nearly three weeks.

"In playing against ACU, defensive skill was vital. We played smart defense the entire game and finished with a shut out," freshman midfielder Elyssa Hawkins said. "Not only that, we also played strict defense on number 7 Courtney Wilson and number 4. In doing this, ACU couldn't obtain a goal."

ACU goaltender Crissy Lawson faced 14 'Belle shots, seven of which were on goal.

Last year's battle between the two rivals yielded in opposite results with the Wildcats winning 1-0 in double overtime. The series is currently tied with each team at one win a piece.

With the victory, the 'Belles are currently tied in first place with the West Texas A&M Lady Buffaloes.

The 'Belles will continue conference play at 4 p.m. Friday in a home game against conference foe Midwestern State.

As of late, the Lady Mustangs are riding on a three-game winning streak heading into the match with a pair of 2-1 victories over Colorado Mines and Colorado-Colorado Springs. The Lady Mustangs are 5-3 for the season and will open conference play against the 'Belles.

The 'Belles will also break from conference play to face St. Mary's University at 4 p.m. Sunday. The struggling Rattlers are 1-6-1 for the season.

"Our expectation this weekend is to come out with shut outs in both games," Hawkins said. "Not only that, but to also not underestimate either teams. This is a new season; anyone can be golden."

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools