By Eric Weiss

Senior Writer

The women’s soccer team defeated American 3-0 on Saturday at home in Lewisburg. Led by three seniors, the Bison controlled the game from start to finish.

The Bison struck first in the 24th minute off of a corner as Caitlin Holtz ’11 sent a ball to the back post that was almost blocked by the American keeper. For the rest of the half the Bison battled against a few American runs but the staunch back line for the Orange and Blue stayed strong.

“We played our hearts out to open up the season, and I know if we continue to play this way we will be very successful in the future,” co-captain Amanda Citron ’11 said.

Kelsey Johnson ’11 scored off a scramble in front of the net in the second half for a 2-0 lead as a penalty kick for the Bison set up the play. Johnson scored for the first time since her first year. For the rest of the second half, the Bison controlled an American offense that came in on a three-game winning streak.

In the 84th minute Christa Matlack ’11 helped add an insurance goal when she dribbled into the box, read the goalie and passed to a wide open Kelliann Doherty ’11 who put the game away.

“Even though we were up we never let up, and I think this sent a message to the rest of the league,” Doherty said.

The Bison continue with Patriot League play next weekend when they travel to Lafayette on Friday and Lehigh on Sunday. With continued success, the Bison will hopefully gain home field advantage for the Patriot League playoffs.