As with most college soccer teams, Ohio's spring season has been filled with injuries and position changes.
Because of a combination of graduation and the lack of the presence incoming freshmen will bring, the Bobcats have played most of the spring season shorthanded.
This weekend, Ohio played two games, falling to Wright State 1-0 and defeating the Master's Futbol Academy 3-0.
We played well this weekend
said coach Stacy Strauss. We're still having problems finishing (scoring opportunities) when we're given great chances to do so though.
The lack of offense against Wright State mirrored Ohio's offensive deficiencies last weekend against Marshall, where the Bobcats frequently squandered offensive opportunities and were shut out.
SOLID DEFENSIVE PLAY
The road trip to Wright State marked the second straight weekend in which the Bobcats only allowed one goal over two games.
Against Wright State, the Bobcats allowed one early goal. But, after halftime adjustments, Strauss said they didn't allow a shot on goal in the final 30 minutes of play.
In the second game of the day, the Bobcat defense dominated the Master's Futbol Academy, holding the team scoreless.
The outstanding defensive effort came without the help of freshman goalie Joie Cosby, who is recovering from an elbow injury.
NEIGHBORS FROM THE NORTH
The Bobcats had little trouble with Master's Futbol Academy, a team featuring both amateur and college-level players.
After a scoreless first half for both teams, the Bobcats scored three times in the last 30 minutes in a 3-0 final.
Facing a team from Canada was an interesting experience, Strauss said, noting she was impressed with her team's halftime adjustment.
This team was very good. They were very skilled on the ball she said. They took a huge amount of touches and we had to adjust that. They were very quick.
UP NEXT
The previous weekend signaled the end of competitive play for Ohio's spring season, but that doesn't mean it's time for the squad to relax.
Strauss said her team will practice for the next few weeks, and that its workout regimen will include heavy lifting and running sessions.
We're going to keep everyone busy for the duration of the school year
Strauss said. The more opportunities we give the team to improve
the better.
Ohio finished its spring with a record of 5-3-2 and will host its annual alumni game May 15 at Chessa Field.
The team made strides in fitness, ball possession, and tactical understanding this spring, Strauss said.
She also highlighted a development of team cooperation over winter and spring quarters.
We're really developing a sense of cohesiveness both on and off the field
Strauss said. That's tremendously important in soccer. You have to know and be comfortable with your team.
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Sports
Noah Meyers
