Home field advantage continues to be a factor for women’s soccer as they tightened their cleats on the AstroTurf last Thursday and took full offensive charge against the Hawks of Holy Names University.
“We’ve got to prove ourselves no matter who we play,” said Zoe Zappas, junior midfielder for the Eagles. “[And] It’s always fun to play for people you love.”
Their non-conference opponent from Oakland allowed five goals by five different Eagle players, including Zappas, which tied a Biola record that was set during a NAIA tournament in 2004.
The clock had barely reached the tenth minute of regulation and Biola was already looking to score. Eagle starters, senior Ashley Moseley and junior Sam David, did not waste any time as they combined for two goals in less than a minute.
The Hawks’ defense did not fall apart; instead they remained on their toes. In the next 20 minutes of play, the Eagles offense dribbled down the middle of the field, but were met with tough pressure. However, the Eagles made the slight adjustment and continued to attack.
About 15 minutes into the second half, the Eagles scored another goal to the put the lead at 3-0. The goal went to sophomore Brittany Barr and the assist to senior Nikki Mathis. The Hawks seemed to cave in as they made seven substitutions immediately after Barr’s goal.
Following the substitutions, Zappas kicked a 20 yard blast into the left corner of the net making her the fourth player to score in the game. This was her second goal of the season, indicating that Zappas is a key player for the Eagles.
Injuries in the past have slowed down Zappas’ collegiate career, but she remains positive about the whole experience thus far.
“I had two years to think about playing,” Zappas said. “And my attentions of going out to play have giving me a passion and more of an appreciation.”
The last goal that lit up Biola’s scoreboard was by senior Megan Gularte. She received a nice pass by Mathis which put the final score at 5-0. The Eagles only gave up seven shots, and two saves were recorded by Eagle goalkeeper, sophomore Erin Frushon. She continues to be another key player that will help the Eagles down the road.
Biola has now scored nine goals in three matches this season after scoring just 14 in the entire 2008 campaign. Notably, this is the Eagles second-straight home win and improves their record to 2-0-1 on the season.
Overall, the women’s soccer team has shown their drive to win this season because of the way more players are contributing by their scoring. This remains a positive as the women‘s next opponent will be Soka University. Soka just recently added the women’s soccer program to the NAIA bracket this year.
This non-conference team from Aliso Viejo will be facing the Eagles at home on the 18th of September. This game marks the third game in a row that Biola will host. Also, GSAC play will began at home as well next Saturday against San Diego Christian.
