The Valparaiso University women’s soccer team defeated the Fort Wayne Mastodons, 2-0, in a rain-filled evening on Brown Field Friday night. Valpo scored twice in the first half and limited the visitors to only six shots on the contest, all occurring in the second half.

How It Happened

• The Crusaders opened their scoring tonight with a 26^th minute goal from senior April Cronin (Glenview, Ill./Glenview South), her fourth goal on the season, as she found the back of the net from 10 yards out. Cronin had a couple close encounters before the goal, having two shots nearly go in within three minutes of each other.
• Freshman Ali Quillen (Beavercreek, Ohio/Beavercreek) tallied her first goal of her career during the 33^rd minute with a shot off of a corner from sophomore Cory Griffith (Lemont, Ill. / Providence Catholic).
• Freshman Tess Barrett (Tinley Park, Ill./ Providence Catholic) led the Crusaders in goal tonight, saving one shot to earn the first shutout of her career. The Mastodons attempted six shots in the second half, and the Crusader defense helped Barrett hold the clean sheet, recording a team save in the 83rd minute.

Inside the Game

• Valpo had 11 shots in the first half, while capturing two goals. The visitors did not attempt a single shot during that time span.
• Cronin’s goal was the 21st of her Valpo career, moving her into a tie for second in program history with Emily King. She also now has 49 career points, just three shy of second position in that category.
• For the second straight game, a Crusader freshman recorded her first career goal, as Adi Johnson did so last time out.

Thoughts from Head Coach John Marovich

 “I thought the first 45 minutes were good – we found our shape in the attack and the ability to win the second ball, open up the game and keep possession.”

“The central midfield players did a good job moving the ball around and driving on defenders and slipping into the seam, which gave April a good look and she was able to finish it off for the opening goal.”

“The back five had a really nice night, keeping a clean sheet. It was especially nice to see tonight where things can get a little hectic due to the weather and we kept our composure. I was really impressed with how we played tonight and the fact we didn’t let the weather affect us at all. Up and down the roster, our attitude was really great this evening.”

Next Up

Valpo (3-4-0) travels to Kalamazoo, Mich. this Sunday to take on Western Michigan at noon CT.