Lady Pioneers Improve to 2-0 Following win at Ancilla

Fresh off the victory against Lake Michigan, Delta looked to continue their hot start to the season against a tough Ancilla team. Much like their last contest, the Lady Pioneers came out strong, putting immediate pressure on the Chargers midfielders and defensive backs. DC got on the board first in the 15th minute when Taylor Farrand sent a cross into the Charger near-side post, where Paige Renshaw was waiting to head it into the net for her second goal in as many games to open the season. In the 40th minute, Captain Delaney Gravlin sent a free kick to the far post that was redirected by the keeper. Waiting for the deflection was Skylar Eckert as she gathered and scored, making the score going into the half 2-0 in favor of the Lady Pioneers.

"The offensive group played with a new sense of creativity and passion that made it difficult for the Chargers to stop today," Head Coach Paul Stenglein said after the game.

Delta continued to apply pressure but the Ancilla keeper came up with some very good saves, keeping the game close for her team.

In the second half, Delta knew they would need to shut down the attacking runs from the Chargers mid and center-back if they wanted to hold on to the victory. Ancilla would try and build pressure from their back line to make runs but Delta would collapse on it, thanks to stellar play from their midfielders and backs. "I was extremely proud of the way the girls played today," Stenglein said, "They were focused and very hard working.  There were a few tense times when Ancilla had the ball deep in our defensive third, however our defensive backs and holding mids came up strong every time."

The Pioneers controlled these players thanks to their defensive pressure and solid play in net. Kalyn Breckenridge and Hannah Bauer both saw time in the net for Delta and they combined for 5 saves and the shutout.

In the 60th minute, a through-ball was sent to Nicole Hill in the deep corner of the field. She collected it, and sent a cross into the box where Taylor Farrand ran up and headed the ball past the keeper for the 3-0 advantage.

Up next for the Lady Pioneers is their first home contest of the season against Muskegon. A season ago, Delta won both matchups against the Jayhawks. "I am excited to host Muskegon on Wednesday for our home opener of the season, Stenglein said.  "The girls are becoming more aware of how we want each position to be played.  I continue to see progress with this team each game and training session."