The MCC tournament run came to an unexpected and disappointing end for the NAIA #18 ranked Spring Arbor University women's soccer team when they were upset 1-0 by the visiting University of St. Francis Cougars today.
In spite of controlling play throughout and outshooting the visitors by a 25-5 count, the Cougars were not able to solve the brilliant play of USF net minder Stacey Rider and fell prey to a 30+ yard laser shot by Mary Whisler to come away from the contest shaking their heads.
"The game of soccer is a funny and sometimes just doesn't make sense," commented Spring Arbor University head coach Jason Crist. "We played one of the best halves of our season in the second half of this game and Rider was simply amazing. Not only did we get a lot of shots, but we had a lot of quality shots that she stood on her head to keep out of their net."
SAU moved the ball well in the contest and especially in the second stanza, as they attacked Rider's frame in a variety of ways and from a variety of angles. With lots of USF players falling back into their own third to defend, the visitors were also able to congest the penalty area and make it hard for the Cougars to find clear openings.
Playing in front of a loud and spirited crowd Spring Arbor fought for the equalizer until the end, but it was not to be on this day.
"I am disappointed for our players, but so proud of their play today," finished Crist. "We played plenty well enough to win the game, and they left everything on the field today. Now we are left to play the waiting game to see if we can find a way into the NAIA national tournament on an at-large basis."
Spring Arbor managed to get 15 of their shots on frame, while USF put 3 of their 5 attempts at goal on target. The Cougars also launched seven corner kinks in the contest to just one by the visitors.
The Cougars must now wait until after the NAIA region 8 tournament next weekend to see if they are selected to the 20 team NAIA tournament at-large. If not, SAU will likely participate in the NCCAA post season beginning the first week in November.
