Central Michigan University
Oakland
Historic Win, And Now The MAC
9/18/2016 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
Cullen Maksimowski, CMUChippewas. Com
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. — The 2016 Central Michigan soccer team took its place in the record books Sunday, defeating Oakland, 1-0, in a non-conference game at the CMU Soccer-Lacrosse Stadium to improve to 8-0-0, the best start in program history.
The Chippewas eclipsed the previous best start, 7-0-0, set in 2006.
"I thought we put out a real charged and emotional performance today," said CMU coach Peter McGahey. "I think (the record) is a pretty neat recognition. Considering the long history our program has, to be able to set a new record is really special and is a memory people will look back on when they talk about this 2016 team."
CMU outshot Oakland,15-7, and had a 3-0 advantage in corner kicks.
It was fitting that the lone goal came off the foot of one of the Chippewas' six seniors, Taylor Potts, on a day that the class was honored in a pre-game ceremony. Kristen Knutson, Christen Chiesa, Kaylin Hoomaian, Samantha Maher and Eliza Van de Kerkhove were also recognized.
Potts launched a shot from the penalty box in the 58th minute for her second goal this season.
"I think the piece the Potts brings, is a competitive spirit and a belief that we can make those sorts of plays," McGahey said. "Celebrating our seniors today, I could not have been more fitting then to have one of our seniors score the goal."
Knutson was perfect in goal once again, making two saves on the way to her fourth shutout of the season.
Alice Palmer led the Golden Grizzles (4-5-1) with four shots, two on goal, and Alison Holland made five saves in the net.
CMU opens Mid-American Conference play on Friday, Sept. 23, at Northern Illinois (1-4-2). Two days later, they will play at Western Michigan (6-2), the defending conference tournament champion.
"The hard part is that with MAC play starting next week, the reality of the situation is that we start 0-0," McGahey said. "I also think it's the wrong approach and certainly not the approach we will take to say (the non-conference schedule) doesn't mean anything.
"I think it means a lot. How many teams across the country are going to wake up on Monday morning and be 8-0? The CMU women's soccer team is."
