The Otterbein women’s soccer team was able to keep the Oar this weekend with a 1-0 win over a major rival in Capital University. The Battle for the Oar game was held at Memorial Stadium on Oct. 25, starting with a goal from senior Alyssa Lemos in the first half, which resulted in a 1-0 win.
Otterbein was outshot by Capital 14-12, but kept pushing to get the big win. Kate Hayes, a junior defender, described how their hard work paid off in this game.
“The biggest thing we worked on all week leading up to Capital is playing for each other and keeping the energy high," Hayes said. "We know that Capital is always a competitive game, and we wanted to really come together and stay focused.”
Not only did the team work hard on the field, but also off the field. Hayes said that the team did bonding events and had fast-paced, competitive training.
The Cardinals are looking forward to the OAC tournament coming up in the first week of November. "Although it is always competitive, this is the time of the season where we feel the closest and the games are so much fun,” Hayes said. Their biggest goal for the tournament is to beat Ohio Northern University.
Hayes also emphasized how their love for the game allows them to work together. “This is why we play. We love the game, and playing in the tournament always intensifies those feelings,” she said.
Their last game of the regular season before the OAC tournament is Senior Day against Heidelberg University on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 2 p.m. It will be hosted at Memorial Stadium.
