Back in early August, ISU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Debs Brereton spoke to KISU about the prospects for the upcoming season.
The interview provided fans with reasons for excitement and optimism. We learned that in the summer the squad was transformed, and fresh talent was brought in to strengthen the defense, midfield, and attack. The mood was positive as the team prepared for their maiden game on the refurbished Davis Field.
However, for Bengal Soccer fans following the team this semester, any renewed confidence quickly faded into pain and disappointment. After ten games, the Bengals are still searching for their first win, with nine defeats muddying their record.
Yes, the statistics look bleak. But, with conference play looming, I argue that Coach Brereton should take solace from the old saying, ‘soccer matches are not played on paper’.
Soccer is a complicated game, it’s one of the oldest sports in the world, and fortunes can switch on a dime. Hidden beneath the black and white post-game statistics is a more accurate and unmeasured reality. Unreported are measures of grit, determination, and heart.
Later this week (Friday 24th September), the Bengals kick-off conference play against rivals Eastern Washington. A victory, or even a draw in this game, could completely reverse the fortunes of the Bengals. Momentum is a big term in Soccer – and the Bengals need to generate some with a positive result.
It's not going to be easy and team moral has taken a beating in the pre-season. Though, the Bengals have a very young team, which is heavy with Freshman and Sophomore players. As the season progresses and these players gain experience at the College level, they are going to individually improve and develop as a team.
I’m putting myself out there and predicting that the Bengals will surprise a few conference rivals this semester. Watch this space … or even better listen live to ISU Women’s Soccer on KISU FM, the home of ISU Athletics.
