This Sunday the women’s soccer team will take on John Carroll in the championship game of the OAC tournament. This is the second time in the past three years these teams have played for the OAC title and it is expected to be a competitive game.
Both teams bring a lot of momentum into the game. Capital has won five straight games while John Carroll is riding an eight-game win streak. John Carroll’s streak is something of which Senior Hilary Ells and the Crusaders are aware. They know the Blue Streaks look to avenge the title game loss to Capital from two years ago.
“ We are aware of the momentum that John Carroll has coming into the game, especially after their double overtime win verses Ohio Northern” said Ells, “At the same time we’re looking forward to having home field advantage and having our friends and family at the game to cheer us on.”
The Crusaders have played tough games throughout the year in preparation of making a post season run. They have played five out of the other top eight teams in the Great Lakes region. According to Ells, this strength of schedule has prepared the team both physically and mentally.
“We know we’re going up against a team that’s going to give us all they have, so playing competitive teams throughout the year has us mentally prepared for what’s ahead of us.”
A key battle to look at in the game will be how Capital’s tough defense will handle John Carroll’s high-powered offense. John Carroll has out scored opponents 19-1 during their eight-game win streak and will attempt to continue this tear against one of the most experienced units in the OAC, anchored by Senior Maggie Donnellan.
“It is four seniors and a tremendous sophomore in the back. We know each other so well, it is all about trusting each other to get the job done”, explained Donnellan.
The trust between the defensive players has been there as of late, holding Otterbein to consecutive shutouts en route to the OAC final.
The last time these teams got together Capital won 2-0 and started off 1-0 in the OAC conference.
The title game is scheduled for 2 p.m. this Sunday at Bernlohr Stadium.
