KUTZTOWN, PA (September 18, 2010) -- The Kutztown University women's soccer team defeated Millersville University 1-0, in a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) nail-biter Saturday afternoon at Keystone Field. Junior Carolynne Kahl's goal in the 89th minute sealed the deal for the Golden Bears. (BOXSCORE)
The Golden Bears (5-1 overall, 3-1 PSAC) are ranked 15th in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America/HendrickCars.com. Additionally, the Golden Bears are ranked fifth in the latest NCAA Division II statistics in total offense (4.35)
“It was really exciting,” said Kahl of her game-winner. “It has been a while since I have scored in a game since hurting my knee. I'm thrilled and it was a gritty win.”
Kahl's late breaking action goal, which was assisted by sophomore Maria Borland, was her second of the season. Her first goal of 2010 was in KU's victory over Assumption College on Sept. 5. Kahl's performance helped the Golden Bears rebound from their first loss of the season against West Chester Wednesday afternoon.
Kahl's goal brought about confusion as the ball hit the inside of the crossbar and dropped straight down. Both teams momentarily stopped until the referee's delayed call was announced as a goal. Kahl missed all of last season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. In 2008, Kahl was second on the team in scoring with nine goals, three assists, and 21 points.
“Our girls really persevered today,” KU head coach Erik Burstein said. “Millersville dropped a lot of numbers behind the ball in the second half and they really made it difficult for us. However, we stuck to the game plan, we continued to push for a goal and it eventually paid off.”
After a quiet first half from both KU and Millersville, the Golden Bears generated better scoring opportunities.
“We struggled to take coach's direction but in the second half we tried to do a better job,” said Kahl.
Just minutes before Kahl's goal, sophomore Morgan Muracco scored what appeared to be KU's first goal, but it was nullified because the Golden Bears were whistled offside.
“The second half was a tale of misfortune and fortune,” Burstein said. “We were unfortunate on the goal that was disallowed and a little fortunate on the goal we were awarded. We didn't take anything away from the build-up play that created the goal and we executed well.”
Borland's stellar progression during the season continues to grow on the field and in the stat books. Borland is ranked 18th in Division II for total assists and 30th in assists per game.
This was not only a day for the veterans because freshman goalie Casey Behrendt made her first career start and recorded her first career shutout. Behrendt had one save. KU's defense proved to be essential as it only allowed the Marauders two shots the entire game.
The Golden Bears never gave up and that willpower was the deciding factor in today's game.
“I am really happy for the girls,” Burstein said. “Although our execution was poor at times, I felt we played with great determination and tremendous amounts of energy throughout the game.”
The determination that KU is utilizing will hopefully continue on as they host Dowling College Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Keystone Field.
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