MIDDLEBURY, VERMONT 11/13/04 - Middlebury tied a school record with its 15th win of the season as they defeated Keene State 2-0 in an NCAA second-round game. The Panthers advance to the NCAA sectionals next weekend with their opponent and site to be determined.

KSC had a couple good chances to score in the 26th and 27th minutes of the game. Courtney Gately (Canton, Mass.) had the first chance as her lengthy shot from the left side was deflected by Middlebury goalie Els Van Woert (Shelburne, Vt.). Sophomore back Annie Turner (Farmington, Conn.) had the second opportunity as she hit the top post from 10 yards out.

"We gave it all we had, but they are just a strong, dominate team," said KSC coach Denise Lyons. "I'm real proud of the team; it was a great ride until the end."

Middlebury got on the board at 31:20 as Caity Abshere (Madison, Wis.) ripped a shot off the post from the 18. Kim Walker (Ridgewood, N.J.) was there for the rebound as she headed the shot in from close range to give the Panthers a 1-0 lead.

Each team had some chances to score early in the second half, before Middlebury gained some breathing room at 82:10. Annie Lloyd (Boise, Idaho) found Brittany Cronin (Aurora, Colo.) who broke away and ripped a shot into the top left corner of the net. The goal was her 19th of the season, improving on her single-season record at Middlebury.

Van Woert ended the game with six saves for the Panthers, earning her eighth shutout of the season. Michelle Mason (Fairport, N.Y.) made eight saves for the Owls, who were making their third trip to the NCAA Division III tournament.

(courtesy of Middlebury)