Statesmen Drop 3-0 Decision to #15 Benedictine

William Penn University Athletics

by Wade Steinlage

Atchison, Kan.–One of the top programs in the NAIA stymied the William Penn women’s soccer team Saturday as it was shut out 3-0 by #15 Benedictine in Heart of America Athletic Conference play.

WPU (3-4, 0-3 Heart) remains winless in league play, but did not stand down against the Ravens (7-1, 2-1 Heart).

The visitors, who were outshot 23-4, permitted early goals in the 11th and 17th minutes, but competed well the remainder of the night as BC was only able to put one more shot past Riley Ludwig (Jr., Big Bear City, Calif., Psychology) (62:50 mark). The junior finished with 10 saves in the setback.

Offensively, Mariah Voight (Jr., La Mesa, Calif., Sociology/Psychology) guided the navy and gold with two shots, while Raunice Butler (Jr., Nassau, Bahamas, Physical Education) and Graciela Belmontes (Sr., Salinas, Calif., Biology) each added an attempt Saturday.

“The ladies gave all they could tonight against one of the strongest teams in the nation,” Head Coach Jaymee Highcock said. “We played with spirit, heart, and determination, but lacked a little quality with the ball at times. We move on from this game and get ready for Clarke in a few days.”

Next Up: William Penn travels to Dubuque next Tuesday to face Clarke in Heart action at 1 p.m.