ROCHESTER, New York -- The Lake Erie women's soccer team opened up their 2024 campaign against Roberts Wesleyan, getting shutout for a final score of 2-0.

Game Recap
Finding themselves down in the contest by the 27th minute, the Storm knew they had to play aggressive, and in the process, seven different players would take shots-on-goal and three yellow cards were dished out.

Although the Storm were able to muster up nine shots-on-goal compared to only six by Robert's Wesleyan, the Redhawks were better able to capitalize on their opportunities, earning new coach Jeff Vieira his first NCAA DII victory. As for the Storm, new head coach Carl Contrascier will have to wait for Lake Erie's next opportunity on Sunday when the women take on Glenville State, once again on the road. 

The Matchup
Coming off of a season where the team finished last in the G-MAC in total goals scored, there are high hopes that with a new head coach, the income of many talented transfers/incoming freshman, and almost all key players returning, the offensive woes of last year will be a problem of the past. Facing a team as talented as Robert's Wesleyan, it's hard to say a scoreless first game should be cause for panic. Last year, Robert's Wesleyan finished with a total record of 10-3-3 and made the NCAA tournament. Additionally, along with a new scheme implemented by Contrascier, nine new faces made their Storm debut in this matchup, including four starters. In due time, expect this team to really make some noise in the G-MAC. 

Looking Ahead
The Storm host their first home game Saturday, September 14th, when D'Youville comes into town for a game under the lights (7:30pm kickoff). G-MAC competition starts when Lake Erie travels to Ursuline on Thursday, September 19th.