Oct. 15, 2000

MILWAUKEE-The UWM women's soccer team played smooth as they collected another victory in the conference, this time victimizing rival Butler to a 2-0 score. The Panthers (8-7-1) remain undefeated in the MCC, posting a 4-0 record and commanding the top slot in the league.

"It's great to clinch the conference championship at this point in the season. We've never gone undefeated in the conference before and we have one more game left, so that's something we're definitely looking to do," said UWM coach Michael Moynihan. "It's a great way to end the home schedule."

Freshman goalkeeper Kerri St. Aubin proved strong in the box as she recorded her third consecutive MCC shutout and fourth win overall. Dropping her GAA to 0.55, St. Aubin tallied four saves in the match, all coming from legit shots on goal. She demonstrated good timing as she saved a high, hard shot from 30 yards out, and dominated the box by grabbing Butler's crosses and quickly distributing for possession.

"I give the credit to the defense in front of me, they've done a really great job," said St. Aubin. "If I can keep their shots out (of the net) and we can get some in, we'll keep winning."

UWM did a good job pressuring the Butler defense, with notable performances up top from junior Erin Blaedow, sophomore Kristin Munyon, and freshman Lisa Bengtsson. The Panthers' midfield provided a strong core of players who moved well as a unit and kept Butler on the run with their excellent possession.

The Panthers got a boost in the 38th minute when sophomore midfielder Katie Kubacki scored the winning goal off an assist from senior Lindsey Munkwitz. Munkwitz took a corner-like free kick, sending it far post into a crowd of players. Kubacki got the edge going up, heading it past Butler goalkeeper Amber Stouch to take the 1-0 lead.

Sophomore Amy Oechsner added some insurance with a well-placed goal in the second half. Junior midfielder Julie Ruma sent a great diagonal ball into the right corner of Butler's box, and Oechsner finished it far post first-time, hitting the side netting over Stouch at the 72:31 mark.

"We've played an extremely demanding schedule that has helped us come back and play well in our conference. We have more composure on the ball, and it has helped with the mental part of our game. I think we're coming along really well right now," said Moynihan.