Lady Spartans Play Valiantly Against Nationally Ranked #3 Mohawk Valley CC

The Spartans took on a talented Hawks team, as well as inclement weather this afternoon in Utica, and were defeated by a score of 4-0. 

The Spartans played the first 45 minutes against the wind and gave up an early goal in the 4^th minute, but sustained every counter attack by the Hawks from there on in and went into the intermission down only a goal and with slight momentum knowing in the second half they would have the wind to their advantage and focus based on their ability to keep the Hawks off the scoreboard for the final 41 minutes of the first stanza.

As the halftime whistle blew, the thunder and lightning strikes came down from the sky and the teams were remanded to the MVCC athletic building for an additional 30 minutes.  

The Spartans were not loose after the delay, came out flat and gave up three goals in the first 10 minutes of the second half before attacking the offensive third of the field. 

Tia Segretto was awarded a direct kick 30 yards from goal in the 20^th minute and place it perfectly on frame, where Vanessa Jacko was forced to make a world class save before the ball hit the back of the net in the upper 90. 

"We were really pressed in the first 45 minutes and did a brilliant job of keeping the ball out of the middle of the field as the wind and rain were directly in our face," said Coach Renaud.  "MVCC is a quality side and deserving of the #3 national ranking.  Their second 11 are as strong as their first 11 and while we were outshot 25-4, I was pleased with how we kept our shape and support throughout the pitch today when we were attacking and defending their counter attacks.  Once again, Bre Becker has proven herself as a top level keeper at the NJCAA level.  She kept us in the game in the first 45 minutes, making acrobatic saves.  Tia's strike in the second half was all but in, but Jacko made a spectacular save to preserve her shutout."  Renaud continued "the weather delay hurt us, as we were feeling positive about the score at the break.  It will be nice when we actually play with 11 on the field and match up evenly (fourth game in a row where the Spartans have played either a lady or two down).  We are hoping this comes to fruition on Thursday, getting some injured bodies released to play before our home match with Jefferson, who is also a very strong squad this season."

On the day, the Hawks outshot the Spartans, 25-4.  Saves: Becker-21, Jacko- 3. Fouls: unknown.