Oct. 17, 2009
NORFOLK, Va. -- The ODU Lady Monarchs (6-6-4, 2-2-3) are headed up the interstate to face the Virginia Commonwealth Rams (6-7-2, 2-4-1) in the final road contest of the season. Old Dominion will close out the regular season with three games at home following today's game, set for a 1:00 p.m. kick-off, against the Rams.
Both teams will be playing for crucial points in the CAA standings on Sunday, as each are coming off conference losses on Friday night. ODU dropped a 2-0 decision to James Madison on the road and VCU fell to William & Mary at home, 1-0. ODU has nine points, while VCU seven as both are currently on the outside looking in at the CAA Tournament, including just the top four teams this season.
The Rams have been led by Jasmine Riley, leading the team in goals and assists with a 5-6-16 scoring line. June Hartman has added four goals and a pair of helpers and is one of just three VCU players to earn starts in all 15 games this season. A strong defensive team, fifth year senior Kate Hudson plays between the pipes with a 1.03 goals against average and her defense is led by rookie Breiana White.
The ODU defense has led the way for head coach Bri Alvarado is among the league leaders in goals against average (0.83) and save percentage (.803) and her back line has played well, led by seniors Brittney Kortz, Saratu Dodo and Samantha Brennan with sophomores Lisa Bernardini and Rachael Carroll.
Offensively, another rookie is also among the league leaders statistically, as Ashlee Coutu has an 8-4-20 scoring line, leading the team in goals and points. Sophomore Victoria Johnson has six assists to lead the team and has moved up to a tie for sixth all-time in helpers in just her second year.
The Sunday games around the league will be integral in shaping the playoff picture. With just four games to play, both VCU and Old Dominion will be looking to take advantage of their in-state rivals to make a move in the standings. Kick-off is set for 1;00 p.m. at Sports Backers Stadium in Richmond. Live stats will be available here.