Gophers Overcome Elements, Shorewomen to Stay Unbeaten

Rudolph's Shutout Streak Extends to 270 Minutes

TOWSON, Md. — For the third time in as many games this season, Goucher entered the second half in a scoreless tie. Just like the first two games, the Gophers proved to be the victorious side after 90 minutes today as they defeated Washington (Md.), 1-0.

In a sloppy game dictated by poor weather, the first half featured just seven total shots, with each team only landing one on target. As the teams went to intermission, the weather took a turn for the worse, leading to a constant downpour throughout the final 45 minutes.

Just four minutes into the second frame, the Gophers (3-0) drew a foul 40 yards out on the right wing. After pushing her teammates forward for an offensive chance, Gaby Davis (New York, N.Y./LaGuardia) eschewed any help, taking a shot herself that found the top right corner of the net.

The Shorewomen (1-2) created a flurry of opportunities after falling behind, but were never able to break through. They had a golden opportunity off of a corner kick as Bailey Howard ripped a shot toward the far post, but Sarah Eaby (New Holland, Pa./Lancaster Country Day School) came to her keeper's rescue and was able to turn the shot aside just before it crossed the goal line.

With help from Eaby, Lexi Rudolph (Kensington, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel) remained unblemished in her collegiate career, posting the third straight shutout to start her freshman season. It is the first time since 2003 that the Gophers have recorded three straight clean sheets.

"We have played really strong team defense," head coach Tati Korba said after the game. "Good teams find ways to buckle down and win tough games and we've done that so far. That starts with the defense."

With the victory, Goucher takes a 4-3-1 all-time series advantage in the in-state rivalry and has its first 3-0 record since 1994.