Despite a Commonwealth semifinal exit at the hands of #1 Messiah, the Albright College women's soccer season will continue tonight as the Lions visit Swarthmore for an ECAC South quarterfinal matchup.
Albright earned the sixth seed in the bracket and will travel to face the third-seeded Swarthmore Garnet. Frostburg State is seeded first, followed by future Commonwealth member Stevenson.
The Lions have (8-4-5) have proven themselves to be a tough bunch to break down, with three of their four losses coming to nationally-ranked teams. After sitting back for a majority of the Messiah game however Albright will look to be more aggressive, knowing that they have the potential to compete with any team in the ECAC bracket.
Senior goalkeeper
Olivia Giuliano was just named to her third consecutive All-Conference team this week. She made 17 saves at Messiah and has been a huge part of the Lions' success this season.
Joining Giualino on the All-Commonwealth list were sophomore defender
Mel Sullivan and junior midfielder
Alex Talbot. Talbot is joined in the middle of the field by classmates
Alee Gormley and
Kim Harkins.
Albright will look to score through junior
Jordan Cassidy (eight goals, five assists) and freshman
Erin Hand (six goals, three assists). Senior striker
Katie Cooper missed the Messiah game due to illness but provides a key threat up top and junior
Jena Muller (seven assists) is dangerous with her service on corner kicks.
The Garnet (12-6 overall) will pose a tough test after reaching the semifinals of the competitive Centennial Conference. Swarthmore has allowed just 19 goals in 18 games despite playing a difficult schedule.
Senior captain
Marie Mutryn is expected to start in goal and has been impressive this season, with a GAA of 1.07, a save percentage of .750 and five shutouts.
A trio of underclassmen lead the Garnet attack, including freshman goalscorer
Emma Sindelar (11 goals). Sophomores
Megan Brock (five goals, four assists) and
Amber Famiglietti (four goals, two assists) are also dangerous.
The final four will be held Saturday and Sunday at the site of the highest-remaining seed. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.