Nov. 1, 2009

BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Lafayette women's soccer team concluded its 2009 season Saturday night by dropping a 1-0 decision at Lehigh's Ulrich Sports Complex.

In a very physical and typical Lafayette vs. Lehigh contest, both teams looked to establish their spirit and intensity in a driving rain during the first half.

Each squad exchanged chances in the opening 45 minutes, but saw a scoreless tie going into halftime.

In the second half, the Leopards nearly opened the scoring when freshman Jill Dozier got behind the Lehigh defense for a breakaway down the middle of the field. As Dozier broke closer to goal, Lehigh goalkeeper Lauren Mains came out to take down the angle. Dozier's shot beat Mains to the near side but sailed wide and hit the goal's side netting.

As the physical play continued and each team battled through the conditions, the Leopards fell victim to a controversial call in the 59th minute when Lafayette was whistled for a questionable call inside the 18-yard box, resulting in a penalty kick for Lehigh.

The Mountain Hawks converted and the goal ended up being the difference in the game to give Lehigh the season-ending victory.

Freshman goalkeeper Lauren Smedley capped off a sensational freshman year with six saves on the evening. Dozier paced the Leopards with two shots in the game.

"I'm really proud of the players efforts, not only tonight but all season long," head coach Mick Statham said following the game.

"We've learned some tough lessons but they've stuck together, developed well, listened and worked extremely hard and their attitude has been fantastic. Tonight was a great game, I thought both teams played the game and the rivalry in a great spirit. Its obviously disappointing to lose the game on a penalty kick. I thought the decision might have been a little harsh but that's the way the game goes. Take nothing away from our team and hopefully we can go into the offseason better off for some of the lessons we've learned and come next year, stronger for them."