Wesley Soccer Week #1

Wesley vs. Haverford - I knew this would be a great test for our young team from the time I scheduled the match. All week we talked about coming out with quality energy and confidence from the opening whistle. Yet, the experience of the Fords was tough to overcome. We started 7 first year players and showed early signs of nerves. The Fords jumped on the scoreboard quick and headed into the break with a 2-0 lead. After a few half time adjustments the players settled down and we played a strong second half, which saw Freshman Sammie Nevin score her first career goal and Freshman keeper Sydney Kahan continue her strong play. We fell 3-1 in the opening match but learned a great deal about this team. Haverford is currently ranked #9 in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Wesley vs. Washington - After the tough loss to Haverford, the players showed a high work rate at the two training sessions coming into the game. I knew the team would respond and show up to play! They played with confidence and passion right from the warm-up. This game saw the Wolverines go with 9 first year players to start the game. With some nice chances early, we came out and controlled the game with some early possession. In the 41 minute, Freshman Kaitlin Barry brought a great ball down in the box and volleyed a strike into the top of the goal. Wesley took a 1-0 lead into the break. At halftime, the players talked about coming out strong and getting that early strike. We did just that when Freshman Samantha Hannibal connected from 18 yards out just 13 minutes into the second. With a quality defensive effort from Junior Captain Sara Gergen and first year players Hannah Hardman and Brittany MacNeil, Wesley evened its record at 1-1.

Next Game: 9/9 Richard Stockton - 7:00pm @ Scott Miller Stadium