Aug. 29, 2007

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AMHERST, Mass. - Cher King (Christ Church, Barbados) scored the game's only goal as UMass (1-1) dominated play against Sacred Heart (1-2) in the home opener on Wednesday night. The victory marked the first as a head coach for Justine Sowry of UMass. The Minutewomen outshot the Pioneers, 23-1. Erin Parker (South Deerfield, Mass.) assisted on the King's goal.

Sowry's club looked to enjoy playing on their home field, as the Minutewomen piled on 23 shots, including 12 on goal.

The Minutewomen struck early when King scored UMass' first goal of the season only 5:45 into the game. Junior midfielder Parker sent a pass from the left edge of the circle that found its way to the stick of King five yards in front of the goal. She blasted a shot by Pioneer goalie Kristen McIntyre giving the home team the 1-0 lead.

UMass' offense continued to apply the pressure and dominate possession all game. McIntyre played well in goal for Sacred Heart, making 11 saves and keeping the game close.

The Minutewomen's defense proved to be solid the entire game. The Pioneers registered only one shot and failed to have a shot on goal. Senior backs Erin O'Brien (Annandale, Va.) and Kristina DoRosario (Oakville, Ontario) held Sacred Heart's forwards, including Carisa Eye, who finished second in the nation in scoring last season, in check with smothering play.

A key play in the game occurred with 6:55 left, when Eye took a pass in the center of the circle 10 yards in front of the UMass goal. Before she could get a shot off, O'Brien knocked the ball away and UMass was able to clear and end the threat.

King led the Minutewomen in shots with seven, four of which were on goal. Junior Katelyn Orlando (Manchester, Mass.) took four shots, while Parker, junior Mary Shea (Foxboro, Mass.), and freshman Jaime Bourazeris (New Hyde Park, NY) tallied three each.

Midfielder Jenn Howly took the only shot for Sacred Heart.

UMass Field Hockey will be back in action on Saturday when the Minutewomen welcome the Rutgers Scarlet Knights to Garber Field for a noon game. Live video will be available on UMassPass All-Access. As always Gametracker will feature free live stats at UMassAthletics.com.