Oct. 30, 2012

Final Stats | Box Score

VALPARAISO, Ind. - The Ramblers advance to the Horizon League Tournament Semifinals after earning a 1-0 win against Valparaiso on Monday. Allison Shimer gave Loyola University Chicago an early lead as the team posted its eighth shutout of the season with strong defensive play by the backline and goalkeeper Monica Gonyo.

"Before the game we talked to the team about staying focused and staying composed," said head coach Barry Bimbi. "We did that. To score a goal against the wind in the first half was fantastic. Scoring that early goal definitely put the pressure on Valparaiso and completely changed the complexion of the game."

Playing against the wind in the first half, the Ramblers knew they had their work cut out for them as they battled for possession and locked down on defense. Ten minutes into play, sophomore Moriah Schwarz dribbled down the field, passing the ball to junior Tricia Stonebraker. With a quick look to her left, Papierski sent the ball to sophomore Allison Shimer who powered a shot past the goalkeeper, tucking the ball into the left corner of the net to give the Ramblers a 1-0 lead.

Loyola's backline was determined to preserve the lead as Valparaiso looked to score. The Crusaders challenged the Ramblers with back-to-back corner kicks starting in the 27th minute followed by a free kick in which sophomore Monica Gonyo made the save.

Junior Alex Brown notched two shots for Loyola in the first half, ending with a shot to right post in the 34th minute as Valparaiso's goalkeeper, Kristen Manski, was there for the save. The Ramblers would head into halftime with the 1-0 lead.

At the return of play the teams split possession with Loyola steadfastly defending its territory to seal the first round win. Valparaiso created several set-piece opportunities to challenge the Ramblers, but strong play in the goal by Gonyo left the Crusaders trailing.

Loyola had several looks at goal starting in the 67th minute as Shimer placed a header towards the net, sending the ball off the left post. Papierski quickly recovered control, following with a shot of her own that was blocked by a Valparaiso defender.

A minute later senior Ana Claudia Michelini powered a shot wide of the right post from 20 yards out, continuing to pressure the Crusaders backline. Valparaiso had little left for the Ramblers as Loyola sealed the 1-0 win to continue its tournament run.

The Ramblers will play in the semifinals on Friday, Nov. 2 against Milwaukee. The game will be held at Engelmann Stadium at 7 p.m. CDT.