The Rams were able to avoid a third tie in the span of four games on Thursday afternoon when junior forward/midfielder number 5 Brogan Pifer scored in the 82nd minute off an assist from freshman defender number 22 Alyssa Nazarock.
The road win brings the Rams’ season record to 5-7-3 including a 4-3-3 record against MEC opponents heading into the final three games of the regular season. It was a welcome victory for the Rams as it was their first since their 5-4 win over Urbana on Oct. 7. Notre Dame, however, dropped to 7-5-1 with Thursday’s loss.
When looking at just the box score alone, one could easily assume that Notre Dame should have won the contest as they held an 11-2 advantage in total shots as well as 4-0 in attempted corner kicks.
“The team played great today against a top team in the region,” Rams head coach Emily Hester said post game. “We kept possession, created opportunities in the final third, and competed for 90 minutes. The win today definitely helps with team morale because it showed that we aren’t giving up.”
The Ram defense was able to stifle the Falcons’ offense just enough as two of their 11 shots were deemed on goal. Freshman goalkeepers Lulu Fricks and Meghan Byers combined for one save a piece in the winning effort for Shepherd.
Sophomore defender number 5 Katherine Eddy was the only other Ram to find enough space to get a shot off as the Rams have to feel somewhat lucky to leave Ohio with a win.
“I believe that this win today will help with momentum going into Sunday’s game and the two following it.” Hester said. “We are continuously making improvements each game, so I’m excited to see what we can do in the final week.”
Shepherd will look to make it two wins in a row when they take on 4-8-2 West Liberty Sunday, Oct. 21, with kick off set for 2:30 p.m. in Shepherdstown.
Vaughn is the sports editor for the Picket. He can be reached at vbrewe01@rams.shepherd.edu