Nov. 10, 2004
ORLANDO, Fla. - The UCF women's soccer team would not be as successful as they are today if it were not for the defense. Senior tri-captain JoAnna Black has proven to be a true leader. Black is joined by juniors Summer Savage and Julie Snaman and freshman Jessica Hallgren.
Throughout the season, Snaman has played in the net like she was a brick wall allowing 10 goals and saving 59 shots for the season. "Julie is always underrated because everyone thinks that we have the best defenders in the conference which is true but we also have the best goalkeeper. She has come up some big saves. Julie hangs onto the ball, is very consistent, good with her feet and has great distribution that gives the people in front of her a lot of confidence," said Head Coach Amanda Cromwell.
Snaman's numbers would not be this low had it not been for her defenders clearing the ball out of the backfield. The trio of Black, Savage and Hallgren has only given up 45 corner kicks all season to opponents.
The defense played a key role in the win over #12 Florida State by not allowing a goal the entire second half. "Everyone talks about our three goals in the second half but we couldn't of done it without shutting them (Florida State) out in the second half as well. We went to a three back with them (Black, Savage and Hallgren) and Julie kept the ball out of the net helped us come from behind in the win," said Cromwell.
Not only do UCF's defenders work hard to keep the ball out of their net, but they have also played havoc on opposing defenders. Black, Savage and Hallgren have combined for one goal and 24 shots with nine of those being shots on goal.
Come see these defenders and the rest of the UCF Golden Knights in action at the NCAA Tournament in Gainesville, Fla. on Friday, November 12 when they take on the Florida Gators at 3 p.m. The winner of the UCF/Florida game will take on the winner of the Florida State/Boston College game on Sunday, November 14 in Gainesville.