Bobcat soccer to play two crucial MAC games

by Lonnie McMillan
THE POST

The Ohio soccer team plays two important games this weekend. The Bobcats play at Buffalo today, and Sunday, the Bobcats return home against Kent State.

"They are crucial," coach Stacy Strauss said. "They're both conference games. I think we're at a very pivotal point. We've improved greatly, both physically and mentally, and we need to see some results this weekend."

Buffalo defeated Kent State 4-2 earlier this season.

"Buffalo has some speed, and they have two or three players who are dangerous offensively if they are given time and space," Strauss said.

The Bobcats (3-4 overall, 1-0 Mid-American Conference), however, are prepared for the Bulls (5-3, 1-0).

"We're going to come out and play hard, work as a team, stay positive and focused," forward Jen Barber said.

Strauss plans to counter the Bulls' offensive threats with a strong defense.

"Playing high pressure defense should limit their time with the ball and diminish their chances," she said.

Sunday, the Bobcats face Kent State (4-2-1, 0-1) in their first home game since Sept. 10 against Kentucky and only their second home game of the year.

"Pride is going to be a huge factor in that game since we're finally back at home, and we need a win, a conference win especially," Strauss said.

In the Bobcats' only other home game, they were blanked by nationally-ranked Kentucky 4-0.

"They have one or two players who can finish the ball well," Strauss said. "They're athletic and hard-working."

Ohio feels it is important to keep working together as a team, back Erin McCoy said.

"I think we need to play strong defense, work as a team, take more shots, and communication is a big key too," McCoy said.

Strauss said the Bobcats have benefited from playing one of the most difficult non-conference schedules in the MAC.

"Every conference game is going to be a battle this year, but I'd rather be in our position than in anyone else's, because we've played a tough September schedule and have improved as a result," Strauss said.

Midfielder Nicki Pendleton missed the team's first five games, recovering from off-season knee surgery. She returned to the lineup Sunday against Dayton and scored a goal. However, leading scoring forward Christel Schiering injured her ankle in that game and will miss Friday's game. She could return Sunday.

Ohio plays at 7 p.m. today at Buffalo. The Bobcats play Kent State at 1 p.m. Sunday at Shafer Street Field.