Worcester, MA- The Worcester State Women's Soccer team kicks off their 2024 season this afternoon with a trip to the Wheaton College Lyons. Last year, in the opening game of the 2023 season, the Lancers came away with a 1-1 tie at home and with a depth of returning talent and experience, they aim to grab the opening season victory.

Final

Worcester State: 0

Wheaton: 5

How it Happened:

As the Lancers got their first feel of the field in regular season action, they were quick to move the ball around the field and build their early teamwork. Wheaton would start the flurry of activity in the opening 10 minutes as Worcester began to find their rhythm. Sophomore Ava Lemanski (Clinton, MA) would open the shooting for Worcester that would force the Lyons keeper to make the snag and begin the back and forth possession through the middle. While the Lyons would appear more offensive in the opening 45, Worcester's unified force would provide chances of their own while mitigating the threat of Wheaton to carry a 0-0 score into the half.

While the Lancers aimed to find a more offensive approach in the second half, an early two  goals just under five minutes into the game by the Lyons would add to that attacking urgency. While Worcester unified together to create a defensive wall and slow down the Wheaton attack, it would force them into a slower attacking momentum, making each opportunity more critical. A burst of three goals by the Lyon in the middle of the half would force a reshuffle on tactic, but the 5-0 hole bolstered the Lyons pressure providing minimal options for the Lancers, who, after a hard fought battle, were forced to concede the 90 minutes of action.  

Sophomore Ella Gumienny (Douglas, MA) would go the full stretch, recording nine saves, while Lemanski and senior Maddie Breuer (Hubbardston, MA) would lead the team with a shot on goal each.

What's Next:

Worcester State (0-1, 0-0) return to road action on Saturday when they journey to Suffolk for a 12pm meeting with the Rams.