Sept. 6, 2002

Box Score

AMHERST, Mass. - The University of Rhode Island women's soccer team scored four second half goals as it shutout the University of Massachusetts, 5-0, this afternoon in the first game played at Rudd Field. The two consecutive shutouts to start the season marks the first time in UMass history that it has happened.

The Rams got on the board first in the 31st minute on a goal by Trisha Hewitt. Rhode Island, which outshot the Minutewomen 18-14 in the first half, took a 1-0 lead into the break.

Rhode Island increased its lead to 2-0 when Melanie Kasparek scored the first of her two goals on the day just 1:36 into the second half. Less than five minutes later, she added her second of the game and third of the season.

Sarah Johnston had a goal and two assists for the visitors.

Junior co-captain Kelly Nigh (Seattle, Wash.) made a career-high 16 saves for UMass. Jaime Epperlein and Kirsten Marra combined to make 11 saves for the visitors. The Minutewomen were outshot in the contest, 38-21, and could muster just seven second half shots.

Prior to the game, the Minutewomen, UMass administration, alumni and family held a private ceremony in honor of Stephanie Santos. Her framed jersey was presented to the parents and a memorial plague was unveiled at the north end of the stadium.

Massachusetts will host Boston University on Sunday, Sept. 8, at 1:00 p.m. The official dedication of Rudd Field will take place at 12:40 p.m., prior to face-off.

Scoring: First Half - URI, Trisha Hewitt 1 (Sarah Johnston) 30:41. Second Half - URI, Melanie Kasparek 2 (Claire Landon) 46:36; URI, Melanie Kasparek 3 (Sarah Johnston) 51:22; URI, Sarah Johnston 2 (Laura Gothberg); Gina Rosen 1 (Heather Kasparek) 76:57.

Saves: Rhode Island - Jaime Epperlein 10 (76:57), Kirsten Marra 1; Massachusetts - Kelly Nigh 16 (90:00).

Attendance: 421.