Devynn Alston, Staff Writer
VCU’s women’s soccer team beat St. Bonaventure University 5-0 on Thursday to earn its first victory of the season.
The Rams controlled possession of the ball early and consistently put pressure on the Bonnies’ defense. Within the first 15 minutes of the match, VCU attempted multiple shots.
VCU broke through during the 21st minute when fourth-year forward Jazmin Jackson scored via a penalty kick, giving the Rams a 1-0 lead. Four minutes later, third-year midfielder Shintaku scored to extend the lead, putting VCU up 2-0.
Throughout the first half, the Rams continued to generate opportunities, but St. Bonaventure goalkeeper Callie Turpin made several saves, keeping the Bonnies within two goals heading into the half.
“First clean sheet, first three points, scoring five goals,” VCU head coach Hutchinson said. “That’s a huge testament to everything.”
Although the Bonnies had more possession of the ball during the second half than they did in the first, it never translated into scoring opportunities.
First-year forward Monique McEnhimer extended VCU’s lead during the 68th minute and then scored again four minutes later to give the Rams a 4-0 advantage.
“Just being able to score my first goals on this field was kind of special,” McEnhimer said.
Second-year forward Isabelle Franklin added to VCU’s goal total, giving the Rams a 5-0 lead.
The Rams’ defensive performance was just as important as their offensive production. VCU kept St. Bonaventure from scoring throughout the match, earning its first clean sheet of the season.
Fourth-year Ishpreen Marwah said the team’s organization and communication helped the Rams maintain the shutout.
“It was a long time coming,” Marwah said, “I think a big part of that was our organization and defense.”
Marwah also credited the entire team for maintaining its defensive discipline.
“We’re just organizing and communicating, when to step, when to cover, and everyone just being disciplined, not just our defense, but from the midfield and strikers as well,” Marwah said.
The victory also allowed VCU to respond after allowing seven goals in its previous game against Saint Louis. The Rams said that they were using that game as a learning experience.
“I think that for the St. Louis game, it was a big learning curve for us,” Marwah said. “I think we all realized that we needed to do better.”
The Rams will look to carry their momentum into their next game against Duquesne on Sunday, Sept. 27, at City Stadium.