By Ronald Hanaki
Sports Editor

The West Chester Golden Rams edged ESU’s women’s soccer team 2-1 in the second round of the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional last Sunday afternoon at West Chester’s Rockwell Field.

This was the third game between these two PSAC heavyweights. Earlier in the regular season, West Chester edged ESU 1-0 on Oct. 11.

In the PSAC Tournament Semifinal, the Warriors and Golden Rams ended in a 1-1 tie after double-overtime. However, ESU advanced to the PSAC Championship game 3-2 on penalty kicks.

The Golden Rams would score the first goal in this game. In the 12th minute, West Chester senior Carly Henry’s shot beat ESU junior goalkeeper Jules Harris for the first score of the game.

The Warriors would have to be patient in getting the equalizer. In the 48th minute, ESU junior forward Molly Vicari took a cross from senior back Liia Carpenter and scored to tie the game 1-1.

The game seemed headed for overtime again, but West Chester was awarded a corner kick in the 79th minute. West Chester sophomore Julia Kirkpatrick scored off of sophomore Nikki Caffey’s corner kick to give the Golden Rams a 2-1 lead.

West Chester shut out the Warriors the rest of the way and punched their ticket to the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Final against Kutztown.

The Warriors had an 11-10 edge in shots, but West Chester senior goalkeeper Alex Srolis was outstanding. In total, Srolis made seven saves on the afternoon.

The Warriors finished the season with an overall record of 16-5-2. They also won their third consecutive PSAC Championship this season.

Email Ronald at:
rhanaki@live.esu.edu