One of three USF athletic learns that traveled to Oregon last weekend, the women's soccer team was the only one to return with a win. The Dons were victorious in their first game of thc weekend on Saturday, Oct. 20, beating Pacific University on their home field 2-0. Although field conditions were slippery and muddy, the Dons came out strong and scored in lhe first five minutes. After sitting out four games due lo a groin injury, freshman Nikki Gilliam put in the Dons first goal off another line cross from Riggs. Almost immediately after her goal, the hard-luck Gilliam was taken out of the game with an injury to her ankle. Playing on Sunday, Oct. 21 in a downpour, the Dons battled gamely, but still look a 5-0 loss at lhe hands of Portand. Two of the goals were questionable penalty kick calls which slowed the Dons momentum. Injured Freshman Nikki Gilliam observed from the sidelines, "Thc referees were biased; although Portland is a better team, a legitimate score would have been two or three to nothing."
USF's first seasonal victory occurred that afternoon against Hayward. 'The team played together and communicated well" commented freshman Allison Grenrich. She and teammates sophomore Pamela Riggs and Nesteroff all scored one goal. Freshman sweeper Nikki Gilliam also contributed two goals io give the Dons a 5-2 win. Hayward's goals were scored by a penalty kick and a controversial decision on whether or not the ball completely crossed the goal line. The high spirited team has great potential, and prospects for lhe future are looking fantastic. "With a lot of positive attitude and hard work, our performance will improve throughout the season," adds Freshman starter Nikki Gilliam (TheFoghorn).
