Central Michigan University
Oakland
Chippewas Notch First Win of the Season
9/5/2014 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. -- Out of the muggy weather at the CMU Soccer Complex, the Chippewas walked away with their first win of the season. Popping off their home opener against Oakland, the women managed to start their first home game clutching a victory.
With a 2-1 final score, the Chippewas were able to maintain control of the game, improving to 1-2-1.
Senior Laura Gosse was the outstanding player, scoring both CMU goals. She caught fire early on in the half and carried it over through the second as well.
Her first goal developed from a broken defensive play 12 yards out, in Oakland's goalie box. Her second came in the second half with 23 minutes left off an amazing assist from Emily Basten for a one-on-one fast break against Oakland's keeper.
Landing the shot in the lower left corner, Gosse put CMU ahead with a comfortable 2-0 lead in the second half. Three minutes later, Kyla Kellerman answered for Oakland, altering the scoreboard to 2-1.
"I felt good," Gosse said. "I think that the team chemistry worked out really well tonight. I think we are rolling, I feel like we're meshing really well.
"We all have our own way of preparing and I think hydration is one of the key things especially with how hot it's been."
The two goals matched CMU's season output, and the win came on the heels of a scoreless tie Sunday at Detroit.
"Last game we finally started connecting all the time, we really connected up top and that just followed into this game," said CMU mid Eliza Van de Kerkhove, a key contributor who helped the Chippewas control the ball and create scoring opportunities.
"It feels good to play at home and to get the first one at the home opener," coach Peter McGahey said.
Discussing the team's offensive composure in the game, he indicated that they were proud of the progression the women have made.
"Our rhythm in our attack was very good; in finding different channels and finding ways to score goals and create chances," he said.
The Grizzles appeared to carry the play early, keeping the pressure up in CMU's end. The Chippewas defense remained strong, and eventually took command.
CMU goalkeeper Maddy Bunnell made two saves as Oakland held a 13-9 advantage in shots. The Chippewas had six corner kicks to Oakland's four.
The Chippewas don't have a lot of time to savor the win as they head to Ann Arbor, Mich., to battle Michigan (2-2) on Sunday, Sept. 7.
McGahey said he hopes he won't have to tell his players much, when asking what he plans to immediately prepare them for another challenging match.
"The maturity that the team showed to put a good performance out tonight basically earns us the opportunity to go into Michigan with momentum," he said.
