Gators Smother Penn State-Altoona, 3-0
MEADVILLE, Pa. – A late first-half goal triggered a torrid start to the second as Allegheny cruised past Penn State-Altoona, 3-0, in women's soccer action on Thursday. Allegheny knew that depth would be a team strength prior to the season, and the Gators flexed that muscle as three different players netted their first goals of the year.
In the 57th minute, Allegheny (6-3-1) doubled its advantage with a perfectly-placed attempt. Senior Kira Kliment played a corner kick outside the 18 on the right to Alex Gordon, who uncontested, took one dribble and fired a long shot right to left that finished in the upper 90.
Two minutes later, the Gators extended the lead behind another terrific play by Gordon. The senior defensive midfielder played a long pass to feet with a through ball between two defenders that was picked up by Greta Hilbrands just outside the 18. The rookie forward split the pair and successfully executed the one-on-one finish with a ground shot into the near post.
After outshooting the Lions 7-3 (5-4-2) in the opening half, the Gators intensified their efforts in the second frame with a 9-0 margin as well as a 4-0 edge in corners. Emily Karr made one save en route to her seventh clean sheet of the campaign.
Allegheny opened the scoring with a goal in the 42nd minute that was manufactured by two first-half subs. Senior Georgia Frost delivered a nice cross into the box from the right side. Sophomore forward Emily Byers settled the service at the six and slotted home a goal inside the left post.
Hilbrands' insurance strike resulted in her first career goal. Thirteen different players have combined to score the Gators' 16 goals during the 2011 slate.
