Another rematch is in store for the Blue Angels soccer team (2-7-2). This time, Finlandia University (3-9) is coming to Mount Mary Field for the second installment of this season's series. The game is set for Oct. 12th at 2:00 pm.
When the two teams played last, the Lions attacked early and often. Finlandia University launched 23 shots in the first period compared to just two for the Blue Angels. Marissa Rechlicz (Fr./West Allis, Wis.) took over for an ailing Becky Onan (Fr./Grafton, Wis.) in goal for the contest. Rechlicz did her best, but with all the shots and little defensive help, Finlandia scored three goals in the first 25 minutes of play.
The second half saw just as many shots from the Lions, 24. Only surrendering two goals in the second half, the Blue Angels could not jump start any offense while the Lions controlled the ball for the better part of the contest.
Since the Blue Angels joined the NCAA, the series against Finlandia University is fairly even at 5-4 in favor of the Lions. The Blue Angels have been searching for a good plan of attack against the Lions, as they have dropped the last four consecutive matches against Finlandia. The 5-0 loss last time, is something Blue Angels fans believe will not be a repeat this Sunday. As Onan, who leads the Association of Division III Athletics in saves (133), is expected to be back in goal. And Emily Ristow (Jr./Sheboygan, Wis.) will feed off the full roster, as she has lit up defenses when she has had her full arsenal leading the team with 11 goals this year.
After Sunday's game, the Blue Angels will be traveling to Watertown, Wis. to match up against the Maranatha Baptist University Sabercats (4-7-1). The match is set for Thursday Oct. 16th with kickoff at 3:30 pm.
