Soccer looks to reverse fortune

AUBURN, Ala. – Coming off a pair of heartbreaking losses at home, the University of Arkansas Lady Razorback soccer team looks to turn their fortunes around when they clash with Southeastern Conference foe Auburn on Friday night at the Auburn Soccer Complex at 7:00 p.m.

Fans that can not be in attendance in Auburn, Ala., can listen to all the action on KXUA, 88.3 FM in Fayetteville, or on the internet at www.ladybacks.com.

The Lady Razorbacks played the 14th-ranked Tennessee Lady Vols to overtime last Friday night only to lose 2-1 in extra time. Following the match, Tennessee head coach Angela Kelley made several comments to Arkansas’ ability and energy in the contest, a trend that the Lady Razorbacks will have to continue if they hope to pick up a much needed road win.

“I feel that we could be 3-3 in conference play,” Arkansas head coach Gordon Henderson said. “We have closed the gap with the top teams in the SEC and the players know that. They truly believe that if we are good enough to play with the top teams that they can beat the others.”

Defensively, Arkansas has been hindered by injury this season, but the play of outside defenders Katie Taylor and Devon Burger has been spirited and focused. The pair have put together tremendous seasons and coupled with the experience of goalkeeper Carrie Dillsaver, the Lady Razorbacks are never far from a decision. Joining the trio is freshman Megan Fawley who moved from a midfielders roll into a starting defensive position and has filled the vacancy with impressive ease.

On the offensive side of the field, the Lady Razorbacks have looked to junior Christina Burger to lead the charge. With six goals on the season and two assists, Burger became just the fourth Lady Razorback in Arkansas’ 20-year history to post three consecutive 10-point seasons. Aiding on both sides of the ball are midfielders Megan McCool, Morgan McCord and Katie Stauffer who’s work can only be categorized as yeoman like.

Auburn enters Friday night’s match with a 3-3-0 conference record and are looking to secure a position in the SEC Championship Tournament with a win. Like the Lady Razorbacks though, Auburn has been strong on defense and struggled to put their shots into the goal which could make Friday’s game a defensive struggle.

For more information about Lady Razorback soccer or about Arkansas women’s athletics, please go to www.ladybacks.com.