Box Score
COLUMBUS – The Capital University women's soccer team opened up its Ohio Athletic Conference regular season schedule with a 2-0 win over John Carroll on Saturday afternoon.
Last year, the Crusaders saw their season come to an end following the Blue Streaks advancing in the OAC Tournament quarterfinals after a 1-1 draw in double overtime, leading to John Carroll's 3-2 shootout victory.
As the first half began, both teams were limited to just two shots on goal apiece in the opening frame, as neither team managed to score through the first 45 minutes.
In the opening half, Capital recorded nine total shots as opposed to John Carroll's four, while neither team was able to earn a corner kick.
But, as the second half of play got underway, the Crusaders were able to unload scoring two goals in a span of 12 minutes.
The first goal came in the 52nd minute on an assist by sophomore Jamie Murray, in which freshman Monique Hanayik tapped into the left side of the net past the outstretched arms of the Blue Streaks goalkeeper.
On the second goal, it was Murray in the 64th minute who once again tallied an assist, crossing a shot from the far right side of the field to senior Hilary Ells, who netted a shot inside the box to the upper right corner of the goal.
From that point forward, the Crusaders were able to stifle the Blue Streaks offensive attack, limiting them to just four of their seven shots coming on goal for the game.
With the 2-0 victory, the Crusaders recorded their third straight shutout, fifth in their last six matches.
"It is always good to start on the plus side of the tally sheet in conference," Kouns said. "Anytime you can get a win in the OAC it is a good thing."
Leading the way for Capital was Hanayik, scoring her third goal of the season, while Ells recorded her seventh goal of the season.
Murray also picked up a pair of assists, giving her two assists on the year.
"I was very pleased with the way we scored our two goals," Kouns said. "We've been working on attacking and Jamie (Murray) did a great job on setting up both goals."
Kouns also pointed out that a consistent effort and focus is vital in the Crusaders continuing to perform at a winning level.
"We will have to work on a consistent focus and work rate that we need in order to achieve our goals for this season," Kouns said.
Next game for Capital (8-2-1) is at Ohio Northern on Oct. 8 at 4 p.m.
"Anytime you go to Ohio Northern you know you have to bring your best," Kouns said. "We have to be a lot sharper and focused than we were today in order to bring our best game next Tuesday."
