On Saturday, the Women’s Soccer team opened its season with a thrilling overtime victory against NESCAC rival Middlebury. Megan Kim ’16 broke the scoreless tie for Amherst just seven minutes into overtime with a stellar play, giving the Lady Jeffs their first win of the 2013 season.
Defense shined for both teams in the first half, with only five total shots on goal. The Panthers had the first look of the game just over six minutes into regulation with a shot from senior Scarlett Kirk, but goalkeeper Holly Burwick ’16 blocked the advance for her first save of the season. Middlebury struggled offensively for the remainder of the half as Amherst carried the momentum, tallying four straight shots before heading into the break tied at zero.
The Panthers came back strong in the second half, producing four consecutive shots in what continued to be a close matchup. The Lady Jeffs responded with two shots of their own in the final minute of regulation, but both balls went wide to send the game into overtime.
Amherst jumped out to an explosive start in the first overtime period of the season, tallying three shots, including two on goal, within seven minutes of play. A long ball to Kim ’16 would be the deciding factor for the Lady Jeffs in the end however. Middlebury keeper Elizabeth Foody ’14 came out to block Kim’s approaching shot, but the sophomore forward chipped the ball over Foody ’14 and fired it into the back of the net at the 97:08 mark to give the Jeffs a thrilling 1-0 victory.
Four players put shots on goal for Amherst, who held an 8-7 edge in shots during regulation. Junior Emma Rothkopf ’15 led the offense with three shots, including one on goal, while Burwick ’16 looked strong in net with five saves to earn the shutout victory.
Amherst is back in action tonight in its first road contest, a Pioneer Valley match-up against non-conference opponent Mount Holyoke. The Jeffs are 3-0 against the Lyons in their past three meetings, with a decisive 9-0 victory coming in the 2012 season. Kick-off is set for 7 p.m.
