Adam Kelly | Echo
The women's soccer team saw its 2013 season come to a close last Saturday as they fell 1-0 to a Spring Arbor team ranked No. 8 in the NAIA.
The Trojans won two straight games against the No. 2 and No. 3 seeds-Grace and Saint Francis-to gain access to the championship game. Taylor attempted to knock off the three-time defending tournament winners and take home their first women's soccer championship since 1999.
"Our mindset was good, our preparation was good and we were as healthy as we were all year so it was really encouraging going into the match," said head coach Scott Stan.
Spring Arbor gained a 1-0 lead with a goal in a crowded box in the 28th minute. The Trojans tried to tie the game but could only manage two shots overall with one, from senior Molly Drooger, careening off the crossbar.
"It was a hard fought game; we had chances and so did they," Drooger said. "Unfortunately they capitalized on one of them and we didn't."
The Cougars played a stifling defense, not allowing many threatening possessions for Taylor. The Trojans held their own on the defensive side of the field, only allowing the one goal and just four shots on goal. Corner kicks were hard to come by in this defensive battle as both teams combined for just three total.
"I could not have asked for a better season than this past season," said senior Christi Dithrich. "As seniors, we were honored to have such wonderful teammates that would put so much into the program. The girls on the team were continually striving for excellence and I think we did that."
It was a bittersweet moment for the four seniors who left it all on the field Saturday night.
"All four of these girls came in together. These seniors are experienced, they are confident and so it will be hard to replace them," Stan added.
Drooger ended her career with the most goals in Taylor women's soccer history at 59, a record she broke early last season. She led the Trojans with 16 total goals this season and 12 of their first 14 goals of the year.
"Our program has improved a lot and to be able to be a part of that means a lot to us seniors," Drooger said. "Most of my best memories from my Taylor experience come from being a part of the soccer team and growing as a person with my teammates. I will definitely miss it."
Photography by Timothy P. Riethmiller
