August 20, 2010

Bulls Drop Season Opener At Pittsburgh, 4-1

PITTSBURGH, PA – The University at Buffalo women's soccer teamed opened its season Friday evening at Big East power Pittsburgh. A second-half goal from sophomore Natasha Arana provided the Bulls offense with its only goal as it fell 4-1 on opening day.

Pitt scored in the sixth minute to put the pressure on the Bulls early. After two quick goals in the 50 and 52 minute for the Panthers, Arana cashed in on a cross from sophomore Katie Kerr to bring the score to 3-1. Kerr was credited for her second career assist on the play.

The Bulls offense took five shots on the night, put three shots on goal and was ultimately outshot 22-5. Three new members of the team - Shannon Algoe, Karen McMahon and Courtney Gross - got the start with Natalie Jurisevic and Lauren Coviello also logging minutes in their first collegiate appearances. McMahon put a shot on goal in her debut and her classmate, freshman goalkeeper Ainsley Wheldon, made three saves in her 55 minutes of play.

The team will have a week to rest up and prepare before a two-game trip west to take on Wyoming Friday Aug. 27 at 6:00 pm and Denver Sunday Aug. 29 at 11:30 am. Both matches will be the first ever with those opponents, with Coach Michael Thomas returning to play the team he formerly coached in Denver.