The third-ranked UVA women’s soccer team opened its 2014 season Friday with a 2-1 victory over Michigan State in an exhibition contest at Myles Kimmerly Park. The preseason game, played in three 30-minute periods, concluded the Cavaliers’ week-long training camp in northern Michigan.
Junior Kaili Torres (Fleming Island, Fla.) led the Cavaliers with a goal and assist, while junior Emily Sonnett (Marietta, Ga.) recorded the game-winner.
“We are happy with the result, but know that our performance could be improved,” said head coach Steve Swanson. “The team’s work ethic and commitment to improving every day was evident during this trip. We have a lot of new players that we are integrating into the squad. These games are a good opportunity to see where we are as a team and we know that we are still a work in progress.”
The Spartans jumped out to a lead in the second minute as Jaime Cheslik scored off a Paige Wester corner kick. The Cavaliers drew even in the 19th minute when Torres volleyed home a cross from Morgan Brian (St. Simons Island, Ga.). The game remained tied after the first 30-minute period.
The Cavaliers had the best scoring chance of the second period when Danielle Colaprico (Freehold, N.J.) was fouled in the box. Brian took the ensuing penalty kick, but it rang off the crossbar to keep the game tied at 1-1.
In the final period, the Cavaliers scored the game-winner in the 72nd minute as Sonnett headed in a cross from Torres.
Virginia concludes its preseason schedule Monday as it hosts VCU at Klöckner Stadium. Game time is 7 p.m. and admission is free. The Cavaliers’ regular season schedule begins on Friday, Aug. 22 as they host Marshall.
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Chris Graham
