After a tough loss to DePaul (13-5-2, 5-3-1 Big East) that kept them from advancing to the Big East Championship game, the Hoyas (15-2-2, 7-1-1 Big East) look to regain their confidence as they head into the NCAA Tournament.
In spite of not winning the Big East this year, the Hoyas still managed to set school records for both regular season wins and goals scored. Asked about the Hoyas’ regular season success, senior forward and All-Big East Second Team selection Kaitlin Brenn said, “I was very pleased with the team’s performance. … Obviously we were disappointed with not winning the Big East crown, but we are glad to have made the NCAA Tournament and [are] looking forward to the games ahead.”
Additionally, the Hoyas believe they have the talent and team chemistry needed to achieve great success in the postseason. Sophomore goalkeeper and All-Big East Third Team selection Emma Newins affirmed her faith in the Hoyas’ potential. “If we play well I feel like we have all the tools to make a successful run in the NCAA tournament. An upset in the second round is definitely possible for our team, who has always played well against Virginia in the past,” she said.
Going into the NCAA Tournament, the Hoyas look to capitalize on the strengths they developed throughout the regular season. “One of our biggest strengths is that we play good soccer, we pass the ball around and are a very good tactical team,” Brenn said.
While the Hoya offense will undoubtedly play a leading role in helping the team enjoy post-season success, the relationship between the defense and goalkeeper will also be critical. “My relationship as the goalkeeper with the defenders will be an important factor for a successful post-season,” Newins said. “My communication with the defenders is key in keeping the ball out of the net. I have a great amount of trust and confidence in my defenders and I think we will be successful at limiting goals and giving our team the best chance at winning NCAA games.”
With their eyes on a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, the Hoyas look to their first matchup, which takes place against La Salle (15-4-3, 5-2-1 Atlantic Ten Conference). The game is set to kick off on Saturday, Nov. 16 at Shaw Field.
