Worcester State hosted MASCAC rivals Salem State this morning in matinee women's soccer action. A picturesque day in Worcester with the best possible weather for mid-October in New England provided the perfect scene for a conference win for the Lancers.
Worcester State got off to a hot start, as they controlled the ball a significant amount of the first half, putting consistent pressure on Salem's goalie and defense while rarely conceding their side of the field. Salem spent very little time of the first half on attack, and with their backs against the wall, Worcester State was finally able to find the back of the net in the 23rd minute. First year Erin Condon (East Bridgewater, Mass.) put the Lancers on top with her fourth goal of the season, with an assist from senior Haley Samara (Worcester, Mass.).
Worcester State tacked on another less than three minutes later, in a moment of déjà vu with Samara once again providing an assist for a Condon goal, bringing her season total to five, and putting the Lancers in firm control with a 2-0 lead. That would be the score heading into halftime, with the numbers reflecting the decisive control WSU held throughout the half. 22 shots compared to Salem State's singular attempt on net, and opportunities a-plenty for the Lancers with four corner kicks.
The second half was much of the same tune, as the Vikings rarely threatened Lancer first year goalkeeper Mallory Dupuis (Leominster, Mass.), who made saves on all three shots that came her way. Worcester State's offense continued to berate the Viking goal, with 14 more shots and another goal to give the Lancers a 3-0 victory. Samara was the Lancer goal scorer, making her a key piece to all the Woo State scoring. She got help from senior Kristen Beidleman (Holliston, Mass.), who provided the assist.
Now 2-3 in MASCAC play (3-9-1 overall), the Lancers will head to Framingham State University this coming Friday looking to pull to .500 in the conference. Salem State left the heart of the commonwealth this afternoon with a 2-11 overall record, 1-4 in the MASCAC.