Soccer Held Scoreless in California

BOULDER--The University of Colorado women's soccer team started their spring season in northern California with a pair of scoreless matches; first with a 0-0 draw against St. Mary's followed by a 2-0 loss against Cal-Berkeley last weekend.

Last Saturday was the first time the Buffaloes had seen outdoor action since they started training in January. They practiced different formations while they played three 30-minute periods against the Gaels.

"We try to use the spring to find the right formation that gives us the best chance to win and the best chance for the players to get the best shot at a position," head coach Bill Hempen said.

Sophomore goalkeeper Kelly Moore was one of the many Buffs to experience action in a new position. Moore started for the first time and helped Colorado to a 0-0 tie against the Gaels.

After the successful matchup at St. Mary's Tiffany Roberts Fields in San Ramon, Calif., the Buffaloes traveled to Cal-Berkeley to take on the Bears Sunday morning. Despite giving up two second-half goals and losing the game 2-0, Hempen likes what he sees on the field.

With 2010 being the first season in four years without standout player Nikki Marshall, Hempen says the team has an identity to "redefine," and they are already off to a good start in finding that new identity. Just in the first two competitions, Hempen likes what he sees in this new team he has on the field.

Although Erin Bricker did not contribute any goals throughout the weekend, she added a level of confidence, strength and speed to show she definitely has legitimate scoring ability in the future. Caroline Danneberg successfully switched to playing forward after playing the majority of her first two seasons at left back. Hempen likes the dynamic duo that Kate Russell and Kassidy Fitzpatrick form at central midfield, while Maggi Steury tags along at defensive midfield.

Kelly Ross and Amy Barczuk are equally attached at the hip in the middle of the Buffalo's defense, which Hempen says "it's always a good thing when trying to re-establish this team's identity."

Amy Steiner, who transferred in January from the University of Arizona, served as Colorado's most efficient and effective outside back. "Steiner likes to go forward, and I am a coach that likes to see defenders get involved in the attack," Hempen said. "So she is doing great right now."

Despite being held scoreless for the weekend, Hempen describes their trip to California as "a successful trip."

The Buffaloes will continue their spring season in Greeley tonight, as they travel to take on the University of Northern Colorado Bears at 5 p.m.