Sarah Neatherton chases down the ball as Jenna Samora follows in close pursuit. (Photo courtesy: NAU Athletics)
FLAGSTAFF (NAZ Today) – By: Drey Deremo – NAU’s women’s soccer team is returning to the NCAA tournament for the second year in a row after handily defeating Idaho State in the Big Sky Championship Game earlier this week.
Next on the list is the consensus No. 1 team in the country, Stanford University. Stanford is returning to the NCAA tournament for the 12th year in a row, and is doing so as the only unbeaten Division-1 team in the nation. The game will take place at Stanford Thursday at 8 p.m. following the BYU-U.C. Santa Barbara game.
“We have to prepare for them because they are obviously the best team in the nation,” said ninth year head coach, and 2008 and 2009 Big Sky Coach of the Year, Andre Luciano. “We have somewhat of an idea of who they are. They have a lot of weapons and arguably the best player in the country in Kelley O’Hara.”
NAU, however, is fielding an experienced lineup to face Stanford, as 20 of the 21 players traveling to the tournament played in last years’ NCAA tournament against Portland State.
“Last year we had already played Portland during the regular season, so we essentially knew what to expect from them,” said Tori Howe, junior defensemen and 2nd Team Defense All Big Sky. “I have no idea what to expect from them. I’m excited to play them. It’s not every day you get the opportunity to play the No. 1 team in the nation.”
“Our first tournament last year, we were a little wide-eyed and we didn’t know what to expect,” said Luciano. “Now our players know a little bit what it’s going to be like and have the experience of playing at that level.”
With Stanford playing at a high level having only allowed 12 goals all season while scoring 70, the Lumberjacks are heading into the game as heavy underdogs.
“No one expects us to do anything,” said Luciano with a smile. “Soccer is a cruel game; you never know what’s going to happen. All you need is a couple of goals and a good keeper to win.”
NAU was able to capitalize on timely goals and good keeper play throughout the Big Sky Tournament, including the 4-0 shutout they played against Idaho State in the championship game.
“I would love to see the 2nd round,” said Howe. “All we can do is play hard and see what the outcome is.”
“It’s been a fun year,” said the soccer contact for media relations, Andrew Tomsky. “They had high expectations coming into this season after winning the Big Sky Championship last year, and with 10 of 11 starters returning for the 2010 season, another Big Sky Championship is a possibility.”
NAU’s first round matchup with Stanford will be streamed live online at 8 p.m. on nauathletics.com and the team’s website, and up-to-date stats and Tomsky’s blog will be available throughout the game. The winner will meet the victor between BYU and U.C. Santa Barbra Saturday afternoon.
Excellent article Drey, I’m very impressed!!