Conference Opener

What an absolutely beautiful setting for our conference opener of the 2010 campaign. The surface was immaculate. The dreary day of rain had transformed into a stunning night. The conversation continued to build and describe our ambitions and standards, but by no means was it going to define us. Conference results are the ones that get you into the tournament or lock you out, and we've been a part of both circumstances...knowing clearly which we prefer.

The pre-game preparation was sound, our focus seemed to be in place. The commitment to our standard was propelling the girls in the right direction.

The match started with loads of possession and space through the middle third, but the dilemma of 18 players in the attacking box is always difficult to manage. The speed of play was a little slower than was prescribed and consequently we were slow to exploit the small spaces and channels. Abby and Kelly looked dangerous, but the game was becoming a lullaby. Finally, twenty minutes in, Abby cut in on a ball from Jordan and snuck one by the keeper to break the seal and put us up 1-0. Getting the first one is so critical against a defensive system, although it usually opens things up a little more than it did. We were committed to press. Less than ten minutes later Jordan would add her own tally with another cracker to the far post. Shortly before the half, Sam would push the third of the day over the keeper to the far post off a header, assisted by Tara and Hannah.

The second half would start very strong. Less than ten minutes in, Jordan served in a corner that was deflected out of the area. Jenny got ahold of it quickly and found Kelly who was able to quickly turn on it and ripple the net for her third goal of the year. Lots of changes were made throughout the match and all our healthy players found some time to impact the result on the day. Abby got in for a quick spell late in the game and converted on her second of the day and the season, nearly notching a third.

In the end, Trinity 5, Hendrix 0. Three points in conference to start off the road trip was what we came for and it was what we took away. Off to Memphis today for a match tomorrow against Rhodes. ...proving to do...

LK