Sept. 6, 2009

Box Score

LORETTO, PA - Junior Beth Carey scored her second goal in as many days and first-year head coach Michelle Marks earned her first collegiate victory in a 2-0 victory at Saint Francis (PA) on Sunday afternoon. Carey gave the Explorers the lead in the 23rd minute with a diving put-back of a rebound to give the visitors the advantage for good.

"Beth has been playing well in the last four games," Marks said. "Yesterday, she got a rebound off the keeper's pads and did a great job finishing. Today, she had another strong finish off an offensive penatly corner. She has really come into her own and looking for an exciting season from her."

Following Carey's goal, senior Kara Harpel scored her first goal of the season in the 33rd minute. Harpel is now seventh all-time at La Salle in points (47) and goals (23).

The Red Flash (0-4) offense did not truly threaten Explorer keeper Emma Ruth until late in the second half, but when they did they put the heat on. Saint Francis (PA) controlled the action in the offensive end and launched four of their five second-half shots in the last 10 minutes but could not find the back of the net. Ruth finished the contest with five saves and her first shutout of the season.

"The first win feels great," Marks said. "I am very excited for the players and pleased with their play today. They have been working very hard for the past couple of weeks and after the three hard-fought games prior to today, a win was what they needed leading into our 3 game home stretch."

La Salle (1-3) and SFC each had 12 shots during the contest, while the hosts held a 8-7 advantage in penalty corners.

The Explorers begin a three-game homestand on Wednesday when they host Towson in the home opener at 4 PM.