Courtney Syfert Records Third Shutout of Season
The Waynesburg University women’s soccer team faced off against Bethany College at John F. Wiley Stadium Saturday, Oct. 1. Not only was this match the Jackets’ first Presidents’ Athletic Conference game, but it was also Senior Day for the Jackets.
The Jackets were able to come out with a 1-0 victory over the Bison, giving them a 1-0 PAC record.
“Our main focus was to keep possession and make the ball do the work,” said head coach Laura Heethuis. “We had a couple of injuries to starters so we knew we were short on subs, so having some girls step up was also an emphasis.”
Heethuis thought the team performed efficiently on defense, with the team recording a shutout.
“[We played] very well [defensively],” said Heethuis. “They had a girl up top who scored a couple of goals on us the last couple of years, and I think we handled her well and our back line was pretty solid.”
The Jacket defense was a big part of the win, especially by freshman goalkeeper Courtney Syfert, Heethuis said.
Syfert was able to make three saves and produced her third shutout game of the season.
“I think the team’s chemistry has increased both on and off the field. We’re all starting to figure out how each of us bring something different to the field, and that helps all around,” said junior defender Sam Nichols. “It is important to keep this chemistry, because it will help us go far like we intend to and it helps us as individuals.”
The Jackets were able to score the only goal in the 11th minute of the game.
The goal was scored by senior defenseman Melanie Burchfield off a rebounded shot by sophomore midfielder Natalie Fortna.
Waynesburg hosts Thomas More today at 6 p.m.