Aug. 27, 2006

Box Score

Valparaiso, Ind. - Senior Mary Dale moved into a tie for second place on Loyola's all-time goal-scoring chart and a staunch defense made it stand up as Loyola knocked off Valparaiso, 1-0, this afternoon in Valparaiso, Ind. The Ramblers improve to 2-0 while dropping the Crusaders to 1-1 on the young season.

"It was great to get a win on the road against a good team like Valparaiso," said head coach Frank Mateus. "They made us work for everything and definitely got us out of our comfort zone. We were able to create some chances but I was hoping we would be able to possess the ball and control momentum a little better than we did today. That said, we are off to a good start and I am excited about the rest of the season."

Loyola got the goal it would need in the 20th minute when Dale found the back of the net after good work from Cynthia Morote-Ariza and Jackie Vera, both of whom were credited with assists on the goal. For Dale, it was her 19th career marker, tying her with Erica Chung for second on the school's all-time list. Despite a 9-3 edge in shots in the period, Loyola was unable to extend the margin.

The Ramblers continued to be dangerous in the second half and twice came close to doubling their lead. Dale had a chance for her second goal but saw her shot come back off the crossbar in the 57th minute and Sarah McPartlan's drive in the waning minutes was denied by the post but Emily Peick (four saves) and the Rambler defense held strong to record the shutout.

Loyola enjoyed a 20-6 advantage in shots for the match and forced Valpo keeper Erin Murray into nine saves.

After a busy opening weekend, Loyola gets a few days to recharge its batteries before returning to the pitch against Creighton this Friday night (Sept. 1) in Omaha, Neb. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m.