OVC opening weekend for Lady Govs Soccer

APSU Sports Information: APSU Soccer

Clarksville, TN – When Ohio Valley Conference play opens for Austin Peay State University women’s soccer team against Southeast Missouri, 7:00pm, Friday night, it will be a rematch of the 2010 OVC Tournament semifinals.

Although a year has passed for both teams since the Lady Govs pulled a 3-1 upset of then-No. 2 seed Southeast Missouri to advance to the championship match, both programs will be hungry to open league play this weekend.

“We’re excited to face SEMO in what should be a rematch we’re all looking forward too,” head coach Kelley Guth said. “I think our young players were outstanding during non-conference play. They’ve gotten better in every game we’ve played and gained a lot of experience.”

The Lady Govs have manifested one of the country’s most potent offenses throughout non-conference action, finishing with a 6-3 mark and scoring in all but one match. In fact, they outscored opponents 34-8 in nine games, while also outshooting opponents at a more than 2-for-1 rate.

Perhaps the most telling stat of all is that 23 of their 34 goals were assisted, which is a testament to the Lady Govs ability to create for each other. Sophomore Tatiana Ariza – the 2010 OVC Freshman of the Year – leads the team with 11 goals and six assists despite being a defensive target in nearly every match. Her offensive prowess has in turned created opportunities for her sister, Natalia Ariza (3 g, 3a) as well as junior Emily Perkins (6g) and freshman Claire Pultz (5g).

A somewhat veteran midfield also is responsible for the Lady Govs ability to find the back of the net. Sophomores Andy Quiceno (1g, 5a) and Joceline Quiceno (2g, 2a), along with junior Jocelyn Murdoch (3g) and sophomore Morgan Zigelsky (2a) have been tremendously effective in running a smooth transition.

Coming into the season, the Lady Govs expected to field an experienced defensive unit, but watched injuries eliminate junior Sara Kluttz and junior Jazzmine Chandler. The result has been the emergence of sophomore Emily Kink at center back, alongside freshman Taylor Van Wagner. The flanks have been well-supported by sophomore Corey Osborn, junior Renny Robinson and senior Stephanie Weider.

Southeast Missouri stands at 4-2-1 overall after playing a scoreless tie with Saint Louis, last Friday. The Redhawks will have had a full week break when they face Austin Peay, Friday, after coming up empty on 18 shots against the Billikens. Erin Shulman accounts for five of the Redhawks 12 goals scored, while Jessie Crabtree has three goals to her credit. Ashton Aubuchon, the SEMO keeper, has allowed only six goals while making 27 saves.

“SEMO has had a great to start their season,” Guth said. “I’m sure they’re going to be motivated to play us and we’re just the same. It’s going to be a highly anticipated match for both teams and we’re excited to play.”