Sports

Ohio had lost four of its previous six games leading up to Friday’s match, averaging just over a goal per game during that stretch. Earlier in the week, head coach Neil MacMillan voiced his thoughts on the team’s struggles early on in the season. 

 

“We need to do a better job of creating opportunities and capitalizing. It is as simple as that,” MacMillan said.

 

The Bobcats did a much better job of doing just that against St. Joe’s, with effective passing and teamwork being a strong point of emphasis throughout the week. Ohio’s Taylor Brown and Katherine Fenzel scored goals in the first and last minute of the first half, respectively, giving the Bobcats a 2-0 lead at the break.

 

Ohio would hold onto that lead throughout the second half with great defense, sealing the victory.

 

Coach MacMillan felt that the rigid non-conference schedule that Ohio has dealt with will also contribute to its potential for improvement throughout the season. The team has been battle-tested early, which can prepare it for the formidable opponents that lie ahead in both conference and non-conference matches.

 

The Bobcats have been competitive in every game with the exception of Syracuse.

 

“We felt that [Syracuse] was in mid-season form and we simply were not. They were ranked No. 1 in the nation at the time, so we knew it would be a difficult one to win,” MacMillan commented on the six to zero defeat. “They taught us a lesson, but the rest of the season’s tough matches are nothing that we cannot handle.”

 

Ohio has important contests on tap with MAC play underway, but still has two nationally ranked non-conference opponents in Wake Forest and Michigan State left to play. 

 

Coach MacMillan feels that there is no reason that his senior-laden squad will not be able to establish itself as one of the nation’s premiere teams.

 

“We are certainly frustrated with all of the losses in close games, but our team is extremely focused,” MacMillan added.

 

As for the rest of the season, MacMillan echoed more of the same goals for his team.

 

“Playing our game, moving the ball effectively and just doing the little things that allow us to win regardless of our opponent will be crucial moving forward.”

 

Ohio will continue its season Wednesday, Oct. 3 on the road against No. 15 Wake Forest. Coach MacMillan served as an associate head coach at Wake prior to joining the Bobcats, making this match a little more personal.