Rams fall from first place after 0-2 weekend

The VCU women’s soccer team had two stunning defeats this weekend on the road, losing both decisions by one goal.

The Rams outshot James Madison 17-11 on Friday, but only found the back of the net once in a 2-1 loss.

George Mason battled back from a one-goal deficit in the second half to further darken VCU’s CAA season with a 3-2 victory on a dreary Sunday. The Rams also connected for more shots on goal against the Patriots.

In Harrisonburg, the Rams fell behind two goals after the Dukes’ Natalie Ewell scored in the 54th minute. Scrambling to score goals in the last ten minutes, VCU finally put one past JMU goalkeeper Jessica Hussey in the 83rd minute.

Midfielder Kasey Sandvig scored from just outside the left corner of the 18-yard box off an assist from midfielder Leigh Anthony.

But VCU’s offense couldn’t produce the equalizing goal, and the Rams toughed out their second loss of the season.

JMU’s Hussey notched seven saves between the posts, and VCU goalkeeper Lauren Hardison stopped four of the Dukes’ shots on goal.

Sunday’s game in Northern Virginia dropped the Rams further down the Colonial Athletic Association regular season standings. VCU stood still with 12 points on the season and a conference a record of 4-3. The team is in the midst of their first losing streak of the season.

CAA leader Old Dominion (13 points) played Hofstra (12 points) in crucial conference matchup on Sunday. Results were not available at press time.

The final weekend of the season will be just as important for VCU, as Old Dominion comes to Richmond on Thursday, followed on Saturday with defending CAA champion William & Mary on Saturday.

With two wins, the Rams might be able to clinch home-field advantage for the upcoming 2004 CAA Tournament.