Tartans Snare Early Goal At Home

Morgan tracks down one of the Tartans
Photo: K. White

The Academy of Holy Cross used an early strike from their leading scorer in the 16th minute to hold off St. John's in league action at AHC's home pitch on Friday, September 24th. 

Kirsten snares a ball from an AHC attacker
Photo: K. White

Despite the Cadets outshooting the Tartans 10-5 and registering ten free kicks during the 80 minute match, they could not solve AHC's defense. SJC 'keeper Kirsten G. made four saves on the day and was rarely tested in the second half as St. John's applied pressure in the middle third to stymie the number six ranked team according to the Washington Post's rankings for the week of September 20th. 

Injuries and illnesses have hit the squad hard in the past week although the girls continue to show dedication and commitment to each other in training and match play. Head Athletic Trainer Mike Walker has dealt with more injured soccer players over a two-week period than all of last year combined.

"I can't wait until this injury spell ends", said Head Coach Colin Lennon. "Once we get everyone back and fit, we'll hit another gear and most teams will be dealing with the same circumstances we have. Mike is doing an amazing job getting our ladies fit and I appreciate the hard work he and his staff have put in over the course of the season." 

SJC returns to competitive action in the WCAC with two important fixtures for the week of September 27th:

Wednesday, September 29th @ Elizabeth Seton - 4PM (V); 5:30 PM (JV)
Friday, October 1st @ O'Connell - 4PM (V); 5:30 PM (JV)
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SJC Team Unity
Photo: K. White

SJC JV (1) vs. Holy Cross JV (2)


On Friday, September 24th, the JV girls travelled to Holy Cross to play an important WCAC FIXTURE.  Holy Cross struck first with two early goals as the Cadets' energy levels were lower than previous matches. 


At the intermission, Head Coach Angelo GRANGER talked to the team and inspired them to a better performance in the second half. Lizzie D. came out of the goal and scored on a wonderful strike from distance for SJC. 


Gina M. made several great saves as the team played with more energy and passion. Possession of the ball increased and helped spread the flow evenly between attackers and defenders, which was a noticeable improvement in the last 30 minutes of the match.

"I'm looking at a group of girls who are definitely making progress", said Granger. "We need to start each game with the same high intensity as we have ended the last couple of matches. If we start this way, we'll be able to win some games."


Granger went onto say that he anticipates improvement in the second half of the season provided that every member of the team remains healthy and works hard in training each week. 


"I hope that the girls have fun when they come to practice and games. They need to realize that this is a learning period so just do your best. I always say that hard work and fun together will allow for more wins in time. Enjoy it girls, don't be discouraged over our results - just stay positive!"