Delta Shuts Out Muskegon, Wins Going Away

University Center, MI – It had been nine days since the Delta College women's soccer team took the field.  That game – a 2-0 loss at the hands of Owens Community College – saw the team get pushed around and forced to play a game that just wasn't their style.

On Sunday, however, the Pioneers played with an explosive passion that forced Muskegon to play from behind all day as Delta won, 3-0.  Delta improves to 3-2-0 on the season and 3-0-0 in the MCCAA, tied for first atop the standings with Schoolcraft.  It was the first loss of the season by Muskegon, who fell to 3-1 in the conference and 4-1 overall.

"Muskegon's a good team," said Coach Paul Stenglein.  "They are well coached and they play a very disciplined style."

With just over a minute and a half gone in the game, Jessica Hegenauer took a pass from Gabrielle Helpap and beat the Muskegon goalie one on one for a quick 1-0 DC lead.  It would remain 1-0 through the half.  In the seventy fourth minute, however, Delta extended their lead when Helpap and Hegenauer teamed up once again, this time on a shallow cross from Hegnauer that allowed Helpap to score her first goal of the season.

With the score 2-0, Delta sealed the deal in the eighty fourth minute with an Aleisha Jones goal assisted by Shallon Grawey.  Ali Bourcier earned the win in goal for the Pioneers, saving nine shots in 78 minutes of play.

"Our passing and teamwork was outstanding and our time of possession was the best I've seen all season," said Stenglein.  "We felt that we outworked Muskegon, especially on first balls.  Our girls were aggressive and played with high intensity."

Delta now hits the road and faces Schoolcraft on Wednesday in a first place battle.  Game time is 3pm in Livonia.

"Today was a great win, and it certainly gives us the needed momentum in the conference."