Spring Break
Women's soccer defeats UMass Amherst 1-0
Christopher Smith
Issue date: 10/17/08 Section: Sports
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The Rams coming off their first conference victory of the season came out strong holding UMass to just two shots for the game.
"It was important to get a win because we have been playing very well and have gotten better each game," head coach Zac Shaw said.
The Rams were in control the entire game, out shooting Massachusetts 15 to 2. Freshmen Stephanie Santos scored the Rams' only goal - her fourth for the year.
"We controlled a lot of games this year and we were in total control of that game, but we only scored one goal," Shaw said. "The same thing happened Sunday against Xavier we could have beaten them 5-0. We need to turn territorial domination into goals, winning games is the bottom line."
The Rams were on the offensive much of the first half, out shooting Massachusetts 9-1. But URI failed to capitalize on its opportunities, as the game remained tied after 45 minutes of play. The second half was much of the same as the Rams continued to pressure Massachusetts. They finally got on the board with just over 27 minutes left. Santos connected on a shot 10 yards out, set up by sophomore Kaylen Shimoda.
"Stephanie Santos is a dangerous player," Shaw said. "She is young, but is a confident scorer."
The Minutewomen's only scoring opportunity came with only 14 minutes left in the game, but freshmen goalkeeper Agnes Arnadottir made a save from point blank range, maintaining the shutout for the Rams.
Last night's victory was the second straight Atlantic 10 conference win, improving the team's record to 6-9-1 on the season overall and 2-5 in conference play. Coach Shaw held a positive attitude after the game and said he has high aspirations for his team moving forward.
"I think we can win the rest of our games," Shaw said. "We have been desperately unlucky. We have created chances all year we just need to finish them."
The Rams will look to continue their recent success next Friday as they visit Fordham University.
"Fordham has done a good job this season," Shaw said. "They are big, strong and physical, but, we spend 95 percent of our time on what we are doing. We are a well balanced team and our players need to be excited about playing."
