IMMACULATA, Pa. – The #5-seeded Immaculata women's soccer team is set for their Atlantic East Quarterfinal matchup against the #4-seed Neumann University Knights on Monday. Their match, scheduled at 7:00 P.M. will be hosted by Neumann.
The Mighty Macs last saw the Knights on October 20
th, when they dropped the match 1-0. The Knights scored in the 86
th minute to take hard-contested match. Looking back, the Mighty Macs and Knights have a history with Monday's match being the third Atlantic East Quarterfinal meeting in the past four seasons for the teams.
"It is always a battle against Neumann," said head coach
Zena Tracey. "We need to remain consistent in our style of play for the entirety of the game if we are to win. We need to come out strong with the same energy we've had over the last two games."
Since facing Neumann, the Mighty Macs wrapped up their 2021 regular season with two victories against Gwynedd Mercy and Penn State Abington.
"We have really started to find our rhythm after a rocky start this season," continued Tracey. "I am confident that the players are ready to hit their stride and come out ready to go."
Juniors
Bridget McDonough and
Kristen Guthier have led the Immaculata offense this season, combining for five goals and one assist on the year. Senior goalkeeper
Brooke Shissler has had an outstanding season in net for the Macs. Shissler is currently ranked second in the conference in save percentage (78.6%) and saves per game (7.33). Shissler is joined defensively by a strong junior core consisting of
Tanis McDonnell and
Corrie Karas.
"Our upperclassman are going to play a critical role in our success on Monday," detailed Tracey. "They know what it feels like to compete under pressure in the Conference Tournament. They will need to lead and help keep their younger teammates composed and focused throughout the match."
Chloe Britton is the main goal-scorer for Neumann, having scored four goals over the season, including the game-winner against Immaculata. Leona Macrina has led the Neumann backfield while in net this season, sporting a 1.69 goals allowed average over the course of 11 starts.
The Mighty Macs stand ready to perform when it counts as they enter the Atlantic East Tournament. While the season has been a challenging one for the Macs, the team is ready to set that aside now as everyone begins on equal footing in the postseason.
"Despite the challenges we have faced this season, we are playing really good soccer right now which is what matters," said Tracey. "We need to focus on the things within our control, namely our style of play. At the end of the day, this game will come down to who can remain consistent in play and mindset over the full 90 minutes."
