The #22 Mesa State women’s soccer team traveled to St. George, Utah, to face two quality teams. On Thursday, Kelly Parkhurst’s goal wasn’t enough as the Lady Mavs lost their first game of the season against Dixie State College of Utah 2-1. On Saturday, the Lady Mavs battled Central Washington to a 1-1 tie despite controlling the ball for most of the game and a late goal by Sophia Whigham.
“It was tough, we dominated both games, we controlled the ball, we just couldn’t find the back of the net. I do think that it was a good to experience a loss early on because we got it out of the way. We can learn from those mistakes,” junior Megan Swan said.
The loss and tie certainly gave the team a lot to think about.
“It’s certainly frustrating to not win games that you completely dominate but I also believe that playing quality opponents early will help us tremendously come conference play,” coach Erin Sharpe said.
With the team coming out of their first four games with a winning record, coaches and players are still confident about the season.
“We haven’t made the national tournament since 2000, but I believe we’re out of the rebuilding stage which is exciting. We play in the second best conference in the entire nation, which sets us up nicely for a national tournament run, we’re ready to show people what we’re made of,” Sharpe said.
The Mavs have added 12 new players to their roster and return four experienced seniors. The team also welcomed back two key transfers that were lost last season due to injuries. With four games under their belts this season, the ladies know how competitive they can be.
“We’ve created a competitive environment in our program. We’ve certainly changed the perception of women’s soccer here at Mesa State which bodes well for the future of the team, it’s exciting,” Sharpe said.
Only one more road game remains before they return to Walker Field for a six game home stand. After a Sept. 19th date with Regis University, the Mavs begin their homestretch of conference play Sept. 22 at home.
“We’ve made the conference tournament the last two years, but thats no longer good enough for us,” Sharpe said. “We’re returning home after getting some much needed experience on the road. I think we’re set up nicely to really surprise people in conference. Other RMAC coaches that have seen us play have told me how different of a team we are. We just need as many people as possible to come support the team at home. We’re excited about this season and where we can go.”