WOMEN'S SOCCER OFF TO 'AVERAGE' START

Team wins one, loses one in recent tournament

by Ken Dunkin

The season has been an average one so far for the UM-St. Louis Riverwomen

Ranked 17th in the nation and expected by many to do well the Rivewomen split two games in the Truman Classic.

The season began on a good note as the Riverwomen soundly defeated New Mexico 6-2. Newcomer Jenny Terbrock led the Riverwomen with two goals giving a reason to hope that it won't just be a varied offense this season.

"We should have a wide range of scorers this season," senior Beth Ernst said.

The team also got help from their two offensive mainstays. Ernst banged in her first of the season on a penalty kick. Fellow returning player Carrie Marino scored a goal and dished off two assist.

Adding to the offensive outburst was mid-fielder Tricia Niederer. Niederer has been battling a nagging ankle injury for most of the pre-season. She had an assist and a goal.

But against the 20th ranked Truman Bulldogs the Riverwomen faulted. They lost 2-0.

Despite out shooting the Bulldogs the Riverwomen were shut-out in the championship game against the Bulldogs. UM-St. Louis couldn't hold midfielder Jenny O'Brien toward the end of the first half. She banged in the goal. Then with seven minutes remaining back Stephanie Towzyloski ended the game with a penalty kick the first goal allowed by Samantha Grashoff via penalty kick.

The team had its moments as three players were selected to the All-Tournament Team. Ernst, Terbrock and mid-fielder Tammi Madden were selected to the team.

The Riverwomen will open their conference season on Sept. 13 against Indianapolis. They will then play St. Joseph's on Sept. 14. Both gams are at the Don Dallas Soccer field. Game times are 1 p.m.