Keeping pace with the success of the '97 season, the No. 17 Michigan soccer team remained undefeated after opening the season with a pair of road games this weekend.
Playing in Indianapolis on Sunday, Michigan (2-0) defeated Butler, 2-1.
In the first half, Michigan took the lead thanks to a blast from senior Jessica Limauro at 37:30, her third point of the season.
The assist came from sophomore standout Kacy Beitel who dismantled the pressing Bulldogs by serving Limauro a pass over the head of the defenders. Beitel also made major contributions in the season opener against Dayton where she scored twice en route to a 3-1 victory.
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| FILE PHOTO The Michigan soccer team took its first two contests of the season this weekend, defeating Butler, 2-1, and Dayton, 3-1. |
Senior goalkeeper Jessica Jones's four saves, coupled with the rest of the defense's efforts, also were key ingredients to Michigan's victory, Belkin said.
"I can count on them to fight hard the entire game regardless of the situation or score." Belkin said.
As for last season, the Wolverines finished 18-4-1 and boasted a Big Ten tournament title which led to the young program's first berth in the NCAA tournament.
With eight starters returning from the '97 squad, the expectations are higher than ever before.
"We definitely feel we have the talent for a Big Ten Championship," fifth-year head coach Debbie Belkin said in a written statement. "Now that we have been to the NCAA's, we do not just want to get there, we want to continue to advance."
Success will be especially challenging for the Wolverines this season in light of six matchups with fellow '97 NCAA tournament qualifiers.
Three of those teams, Minnesota, Penn State and Wisconsin, will also be bidding for the Big Ten crown - while Massachusetts, Brigham Young and national semifinalist Notre Dame represent non-conference threats.
For now, the Wolverines are preparing to host the Michigan Challenge Cup, which will be held at the Michigan Soccer Field on Friday and Sunday.
Riding the confidence of two road wins, Michigan is optimistic about the Challenge Cup yet aware of the threat of an opening game versus Massachusetts.
"We will go into the game confident and excited but certainly respecting the strong tradition of Massachusetts soc
09-08-98
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