The Union University women’s soccer team wrapped up non-conference play this past weekend with a 1-2 record. However, with a young team, there is reason for optimism going into conference play on Friday, Sept. 15.
The first game of the season ended in a 3-0 loss against Florida Tech. This was a learning game for the team, as they got to see how their young team, which includes 11 freshmen, can compete against a top Division II team. The same Florida Tech team went on to tie the second-ranked team in the nation this past weekend, proving their strength.
Union’s next outing ended in a frustrating 5-1 loss to Ouachita Baptist University. The score did not do the game justice, as Union dominated most of the first half before being down 1-0 at halftime. Their first goal of the season came in the 86th minute by Madison Woolridge, a sophomore cybersecurity major.
Woolridge, who has scored two goals in three games, played a pivotal role in these first few games. She explained why the 1-2 record does not represent how good the team really is.
“I feel that the start of the season was a little rocky, but that’s what is expected with new teammates and only one week of preseason,” Woolridge said. “It’s one thing to have a team of good players, but if we cannot work with each other and know what to expect from one another it becomes just a team of individuals.”
The first win of the season came in the team’s most recent match, a 2-1 victory over Harding University. After going down 1-0 early in the game, Union made a comeback with a goal in the 62nd minute from Claire Maxon, a senior cell and molecular biology major, and the game winning goal in the 76th minute from Woolridge. This win came at an opportune time for the team, providing momentum before conference play begins.
Kaytlynn Staley, a sophomore nursing major, is a key defender for the Bulldogs and commented on their start to the season.
“I think the new players are making a huge impact and bring positive vibes compared to our previous team,” Staley said. “We will continue to prepare for our game on Friday by pushing in practice and continuing to build team chemistry.”
With a long season ahead, the team is expecting a better season than last year’s 4-11-1 record.
The Bulldogs open conference play at Christian Brothers University on Sept. 15.