SEATTLE, Wash. - Traveling across the country to compete in a spring tournament, the Illinois State women's soccer team dominated host Washington, defeating the Huskies 3-1 on Friday.
Back in familiar territory, Seattle native Jackie Rucinsky was the first to score for the `Birds, early in the first period. The junior forward found the net on an assist from Meghan Boler, who led the team in assists during the 2005 season with seven.
Missouri Valley Conference first team selection Yvonne Northover took over scoring duties from there, as the sophomore netted the Redbird's second goal in the first frame, putting ISU up 2-0 at the half. Mel Routledge was credited with the assist.
After a Washington goal made the score 2-1 early in the second period, the Northover-Routledge duo connected again for the final score.
Goalkeeping duties were split on Friday, as 2005 MVC second-team selection Andrea Shaw started in the net for Illinois State, while sophomore Erica Goethel played out the second period.
Illinois State head coach Pete Kowall was impressed with the team's play in the spring season.
"We really finished our chances tonight," said Kowall. "Our team weathered the storm in the end, scoring a late goal to secure the win. I am really happy with the game tonight. It always feels good to beat a team from a so-called `higher' conference."
Illinois State will play a few more games in the spring in order to prepare for the 2006 soccer season. In 2006, the `Birds will return 18 letterwinners, including seven starters.
