Soccer hosts conference leader Buffalo on Friday
In an attempt to build off their first Mid-American Conference victory last week, the Central Michigan University soccer team will continue to try and stay alive in the conference tournament race this weekend.
The Chippewas sit six points outside of the post-season picture as they host the MAC-leading Buffalo Bulls, and Akron during a decisive weekend of conference play.
“We have to take care of our matches and let the rest of the MAC sort itself out,” said Head coach Peter McGahey. “Crazy things are happening around us. This is the weekend where there will be some settling in the conference.”
Buffalo sits atop the MAC with a 4-0-2 record. First year head coach Shawn Burke has turned the Bulls around from last season when UB finished near the bottom of the conference with a 3-7-1 record.
Buffalo’s strength lies in their goalkeeping. The Bulls have a MAC-best nine shutouts this season and have allowed just 10 goals all year.
UB freshman goalkeeper Laura Dougall has allowed an average of .39 goals per match this season, and made 51 saves.
CMU’s offense was revitalized against Bowling Green.
McGahey, said things worked so well for his team against the Falcons because it was able to control time of possession.
“It was a whole different game we played last Friday,” said senior Jennifer Gassman. “We all worked a little harder than we ever have. We just have to keep bringing that energy and intensity to this weekend too.”
CMU has strength on its bench. Two of the top three point scorers for the Chippewas– senior forwards Jennifer Gassman and Emily Cooksey– have started a combined 10 games this season, contributing four points apiece.
Gassman said pronounced bench play will be essential for CMU if it is to top the leauge’s best team on Friday.
“We are looking to implement different styles,” she said. “We want to wear opponents down, then let some other players out who can make an impact.”
CMU has given up 116 shots and 11 goals in the first half of their matches this season.
“Our ball possession was very good in the second half against Eastern,” McGahey said. “The problem is we were down two goals. The challenges we are imposing on ourselves are our drawback.”
Sophomore keeper Heather Laefuer recorded a clean sheet in CMU’s first conference victory.
“My teammates make it very easy for me,” she said. “They make my job way easier. We are a team, so it is a team effort.”
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