Sarah Grabinski (Fr.) saved 13 shots today, the highest single-game total in the NCAC this season

October 17, 2006 -- Three days after defeating the College of Notre Dame in a non-conference contest, the Oberlin women's soccer team ventured back into North Coast Athletic Conference action this evening with high hopes of claiming a victory. Head Coach Andy Nelson and the Yeowomen certainly didn't depart from Meadville, Pa. disappointed this evening, as Oberlin held host Allegheny College scoreless, picking up a huge 2-0 win.

The victory was Oberlin's first in the NCAC this season, as the squad's record improved to 6-8-1 overall and 1-3 in conference play. The Gators slipped below the .500 mark in the NCAC with the loss (2-3), while their overall record dropped to 9-6.

First-year goalkeeper Sarah Grabinski and the Oberlin defense stole the show today, as Grabinski faced a whopping 35 shots, saving 13 of them en route to the shutout victory. The Yeowomen had only five shots on the day, but they made the most of their attempts, particularly in the second half.

While getting out-shot by Allegheny 1-15 in the first half, Grabinski notched nine saves to help her team head into the locker room tied at 0-0. Just 1:12 into the second period, though, Oberlin's efficient offense found its rhythm. After a nice cross from sophomore Joelle Sesar, classmate Betsy Leach knocked in a header past Gator goalkeeper Michelle Walker, which put the visitors up 1-0 and would eventually prove to be the game-winner.

After dishing out her team-leading third assist of the season to begin the second half, Sesar converted on a breakaway 81:56 into the contest to provide Oberlin with an insurance goal. The Yeowomen managed to score two goals on just four shots in the second half to leave Meadville with the 2-0 conference triumph.

In addition to being out-shot 5-35, Oberlin also lost the edge in corner kicks to the Gators, 1-8. Allegheny had seven fouls in the match, compared to just one for the Yeowomen.

While the majority of Oberlin's students are away for fall break, the Yeokickers will continue their busy week on Thursday by voyaging to Granville, Ohio to face Denison University for a 5:00 p.m. NCAC showdown. The Big Red are 11-2 overall this season and 3-1 in conference play.

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