Aug. 19, 2001
The Kentucky women’s soccer team held its annual Blue-White game on Sunday afternoon at the UK Soccer Complex with the white squad shutting out the blue, 5-0.
Junior Keri Boyce, a first-team All-Southeastern Conference selection at the forward position year ago, notched a goal and looked impressive in her new spot in the Wildcat midfield.
“We really worked well as a team out there today and everyone gave a strong effort,” Boyce said. “We have a lot to prove this season as we missed our goal of reaching the NCAA Tournament last year after putting up 15 wins. We’re all excited and ready to get the season started.”
Assistant coach Tim Bennett also gave credit to senior midfielder Annie Gage, sophomore midfielder Amber Wilson – a transfer athlete from Michigan – and senior defender Melinda Buemi for having strong performances on the field.
“Annie looked really good this afternoon and her leadership on the field is so important to our team,” Bennett stated. “Buemi was solid in defense and Amber Wilson had a nice game. With Elizabeth Ramsey’s status unknown, we need to find some goal production and will look to Amber to help us in that phase of the game.”
Wilson finished second in goals (9) and points (23) for the Wolverines in 2000. Ramsey, a second-team All-SEC pick last season, tore her ACL while playing soccer at her home in Hilliard, Ohio in June. Her status for the upcoming season is still to be determined.
Bennett was also pleased with the performances from the freshman class and recognized midfielder Jamie Hutchison for her execution against the veteran squad.
“Each of the freshman had good moments today,” Bennett said. They are showing progress and getting a better feel everyday of what we expect out of them. Jamie Hutchison is adjusting very well to the speed and physical intensity of the college game.”
Overall, Bennett was satisfied with the effort of the Wildcats as they prepare for the 2001 season.
“We as coaches liked what we saw out there,” Bennett said. “It was a very competitive match and its purpose was to simulate real-game conditions – that was definitely achieved this afternoon.”
Kentucky will play host to the Raiders of Wright State at 1 p.m. in an exhibition game at the UK Soccer Complex on Saturday, Aug. 25 and will officially open the 2001 season by welcoming Marshall to the Bluegrass on Friday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m.
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