University Center – Scoring opportunities have been plentiful for the Delta College women’s soccer team this season – putting the ball in the net is another issue entirely. For the third consecutive contest, the Pioneers managed to put more balls on goal than their opponents and in so doing walked away with a 2-0 victory over MCCAA foe Jackson.
“We had numerous scoring opportunities that either missed the goal, or were stopped with good defensive saves,” said head coach Paul Stenglein.
The win improves the Pioneers to 2-0 in the conference and 2-1 overall. Delta’s lone defeat came at the hands of nationally ranked Cincinnati State, 5-4.
Neither Delta nor Jackson was able to garner much offense despite both teams having decent scoring opportunities. With the first half winding down, however, Delta began to maintain possession for longer stretches before eventually wearing down the Jets defense.
In the 37 minute of play, Delta put together a good attacking combination when Gabby Helpap, 16, slotted a great ball diagonally. Leah Johnson, 10, then finished with a shot to the upper far post corner of the goal to give Delta a 1-0 lead at the half. While Delta continued to apply pressure offensively, they were unable to up their lead.
“We made some adjustments at halftime and challenged the girls to step up and win all of the 50/50 balls,” said Stenglein. “We also implored the ladies to keep their passes close, and pass to feet. Fortunately, they responded well.”
Jackson never really challenged offensively in the second half as Delta continued to apply pressure and forced the Jets defense to continue to work. In the 54 minute, Johnson lofted a ball to the far post that would find Kaitlyn Begley, 3, who in turn was able to finish over the outstretched arms of the keeper.
“I was extremely pleased with the creativity and effort of the girls. We had a lot of scoring opportunities, and the goals will come as we get more comfortable with each other and with the final strike of the ball on goal,” said Stenglein.
-Courtesy DeltaPioneers.com
