The Geneseo women's soccer team endured a tough weekend on the road last week, playing to a scoreless tie against New Paltz on Friday before falling to top ranked Oneonta on Saturday 1-0.
The game on Friday was filled with frustration for the Lady Knights. Despite outplaying New Paltz for most of the game, the offense could not find a way to get the ball in the net - a goal was called back because of an offside violation and an open attempt hit the crossbar.
Geneseo coach Nate Wiley said he believed that the score did not indicate how the game went. "I felt that we had the better of play against New Paltz," he said. "There were moments when New Paltz threatened, but nothing of too much concern. It was disappointing to only come away from that match with one point."
Following the disheartening tie, Geneseo had to take on Oneonta's soccer dynasty, which has nine straight SUNYAC regular season championships and NCAA tournament appearances, including a 2003 national championship.
Nevertheless, Geneseo - their defense, in particular - came out looking unfazed by the Red Dragons' reputation. Despite the talent of Oneonta forwards, Geneseo's defense was up to the task, denying any open attempts and keeping the play to the outside as much as possible.
Oneonta was finally able to break the tie in the second half when forward Christine Marra headed home a corner kick in the 58th minute. The goal proved to be the only blemish of the weekend for sophomore goalie Katie Clerkin, and enough to best the snake-bit Geneseo offense.
In spite of the outcome, Wiley was pleased with how the defense played.
"I was very impressed with how we defended this weekend," Wiley said. "Only giving up one goal in 200 minutes of soccer is quite admirable, especially on the road. We just need to figure out a way to score some goals."
The Knights look to rebound Saturday at home against Morrisville at 1 p.m.