November 9, 1998

LEXINGTON, Kty. – The University of Kentucky womens soccer team will participate in its third NCAA Tournament in four years as the Cats travel to Minneapolis, Minn., to face the Golden Gophers in the first round on Wednesday at 1 p.m.

“Making the NCAA is always an honor,” UK coach Warren Lipka said. “This is a distinction that these players should keep with them for the rest of their careers.”

Kentucky (9-8-3) advanced to the semifinals of the Southeastern Conference Tournament last week in Tuscaloosa, Ala. UK defeated Ole Miss 4-1 in the first round, but then fell to the fourth-ranked Florida Gators 2-0. Florida won the title by recording its third straight shutout of the tournament, winning 2-0 over Vanderbilt.

UK is led by All-SEC forward Jen McMaster, who has recorded six goals and four assists on the season for the Cats, and All-SEC defender Allison Peppers. Senior goalkeeper Carrie Kuhnell has a 1.17 goals-against average on the season and has recorded five shutouts.

“Were extremely happy,” Lipka said. “Weve worked very hard through a difficult schedule this season to get us to this point.”

Minnesota (13-5-1) is coming off a 2-2 tie against Indiana in the Big Ten Conference Tournament. The Gophers are led by Nicole Lees 16 goals and six assists on the season, while Laurie Seidl has added 15 goals. Goalkeeper Dana Larson has allowed only 17 goals, giving her a GAA of only 1.05.

“Theyre a very proven team in the Big Ten,” Lipka said. “Were looking forward to the challenge.”