WINONA LAKE, Ind. – Grace's women's soccer team opened up the 2015 Crossroads League Tournament with a 1-0 win over Mt. Vernon Nazarene.
The Lady Lancers (14-1-3) used a first-half goal from Meredith Hollar to advance to next Saturday's semifinal matchup. Grace will host Marian in the semifinals on Nov. 7 at Miller Athletic Complex.
Grace started the match sharply, challenging the Cougars' (10-7-2) goal several times over the opening minutes. Maile Grout, Jordan Hairgrove, Meredith Hollar and Mallory Rondeau all took shots in the first half, and Hollar broke through first.
Hairgrove took a shot that was blocked, and the rebound fell to Hollar who volleyed in her shot in the 16th minute.
The teams each took six shots in the opening half, and Mt. Vernon Nazarene looked threatening to close the half. The Cougars had a shot that bounced off the goalpost, but Grace's nets remained unharmed as the game reached halftime.
Both sides had offensive opportunities in the second half. Grace came closer to finding the back of the net. Kristelle Jadoo advanced from her defensive position and launched a shot from nearly 30 yards. Her attempt clanged off the crossbar and out of play.
In the final 10 minutes, Grace was pulled down in the penalty box resulting in a PK decision by the referee. Darcy Johnston took the spot kick but was saved, allowing MNVU a last glimmer of hope.
Grace did not allow the Cougars to score a late equalizer, however, as Grace held on to secure its spot in the semifinals of the CL Tournament.
Defensively, Grace picked up its 11th shutout of the season. Abby Schue made five saves in 90 minutes as goalkeeper, and she was protected well by the backline of Faith Voehringer, Jadoo, Meredith Matson, Erica Manchess and Clair Snodgrass.
"The women played decently today. They put into action a few things we have been working on, so we're pleased with that. They created good chances around the net as well and limited exposure to our goal," said Grace head coach Michael Voss. "As we progress these will improve and so will the overall crispness of our crew. The PK would have put it out of reach, yet the composure demonstrated from that point on was what we were aspiring to."
Hollar's six shots led all players, and Rondeau and Aubrey Feipel had two shots apiece.
