Ohio women's soccer to start MAC play

by Lonnie McMillan
THE POST

Ohio women's soccer team starts off Mid-American Conference play today with a game at Marshall.

The Bobcats realize the importance of a strong start in conference play.

"It's very important to set the tone not only for ourselves, but in the conference," coach Stacy Strauss said. "It's a good chance for us to set the tone."

Forward Christel Schiering, Ohio's leading scorer, said getting off to a good beginning in the conference is important.

"I think winning the first game is crucial," Schiering said. "It's a game we need to win, and I don't see why we can't."

The Bobcats are coming off a tough 4-0 lost against nationally ranked Kentucky, but are not discouraged by their 2-3 start. However, they know the importance of MAC play.

"It's definitely important to win, coming off of a loss to a good team. We need to get our confidence back and I think with Marshall, we can do that. Starting MAC play is like an entirely new season," right fullback Erin McCoy said.

In order to beat the Thundering Herd (4-1), Strauss said the team needs to utilize one-on-one situations.

The Bobcats follow the Marshall game with a game at Dayton on Sunday.

Strauss played against the Flyers while coaching in the Atlantic 10 Conference while she was at Rhode Island and is familiar with the team.

"They're a very good team with good overall speed," she said.

Ohio hopes to contain All-American Missy Greg.

"If we can keep her to no goals, we have a good chance," Strauss said.

McCoy said Dayton could cause problems for the Bobcats.

"As always, Dayton is going to be a challenge, but I don't think it's a challenge we can't handle," McCoy said. "I think we need to play strong defense, work as a team, take more shots and communication is a big key too."

The game against the Flyers will mark the sixth away game of the year, compared to only one home game thus far, but Strauss said the Bobcats do not feel this has affected them negatively.

"They've done a good job," Strauss said. "They've stayed focused and sometimes it's a benefit to have everyone together away from campus,"

The Bobcats play another road game at Buffalo on Sept. 22, and will finally have another home game Sept. 24 against Kent.

Ohio plays at 1 p.m. today at Marshall and 1 p.m. Sunday at Dayton.