Penn State Region Women's Soccer 2nd and 3rd Round Tournament Breakdowns
#1 Penn State vs. Boston College
Neither Penn State nor Boston College had much of a problem getting passed their first round opponents. The stakes are higher and the competition is stiffer now. The Eagles are a high scoring team with Kristen Mewis, Stephanie McCaffrey and McKenzie Meehan, but no team scores more than the Nittany Lions. Maya Hayes, Mallory Weber and Christine Nairn are three of the best all-around scorers in the nation. But this game could come down to defense and Penn State has a slight edge, in part due to senior keeper Erin McNulty.
Portland and Michigan did not have as easy of a time in the first round as Penn State and Boston College. The Pilots were taken to penalty kicks by Washington State but, eventually, prevailed after an amazing and nerve wracking shootout. For the Wolverines it was in-state rival Central Michigan that gave them trouble. After allowing an early goal, Michigan evened the score in the final minute of play and scored again less than five minutes into overtime. The good news about those close wins is the momentum they can provide. But in this case both teams have some momentum.
Michigan’s defense could cause some trouble for this group. But that is a long road trip from Ann Arbor to Portland…and Portland is never an easy place to play. Penn State is a tough out though and it would be a bit of a surprise if they fail to beat Boston College and either Portland or Michigan. Again, it is the Wolverines who may upset the apple cart. Back in October Penn State drew 1-1 against Michigan in Happy Valley. Michigan could get a similar result in November.
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