Wednesday, September 29, 2010

GCSU Women's Soccer Shutout West Georgia 4-0; Lander Up Next

How goes it Bobcat fans?

Have things been great on our end or what? GCSU posted back to back shutouts over Georgia Southwestern and West Georgia last week, winning 3-0 and 4-0. All seven goals came in one respected half for the 'Cats!

West Georgia was without a doubt the most impressive game of the year. The offense was clicking on all cylinders as someone different poured home a goal each time: Freshman Brittany Borror, junior Megan McAlpin, freshman Taylor Yee, and sophomore Anna Wierzbicki. Borror also had an assist in the contest. Junior Karen Bonillia had two assists, too!

Now it's time to switch back to conference play for GCSU the rest of the way. The Bobcats have nine games remaining on the 2010 slate, five of which are on the road. All of the remaining games for Georgia College are in conference, signifying the importance of this stretch run.

Lander and GCSU have had a bitter rivalry in the past. Both teams have gotten into squabbles ever since the Bobcats beat Lander 1-0 in 2008 in the Peach Belt Conference tournament.

Hopefully tonight's matchup is clean and hard fought.

Here are the keys to a GCSU win:

1) IMPORTANCE: These last nine games are the most important of the year. Peach Belt Conference games determine your seeding at the end of the year going into the tournament. GCSU cannot afford to slip up against teams they should beat. The ladies must have the mentality coming in that every minute of every game matters from this point on.

2) INVOLVEMENT: If Georgia College can involve everyone on offense and defense like we saw this past Saturday against West Georgia, things will be just fine. GCSU can't rely on one single player to carry the load. Soccer is a team oriented game. The ladies must play in unison.

3) MIDFIELD: GCSU senior midfielder Ally Treat has arguably been the biggest player under the radar over her four years here at GCSU. Treat is involved on every side of the ball. This team would be in some significant trouble if there was no Ally Treat. If Treat can have a strong final nine games, this team could be well on its way back to the NCAA Tournament.

4) KEEPER: Look for senior All-American keeper Mary Rob Plunkett to continue to improve as the season progresses. History shows that Plunkett gets stronger in the pipes as the season progresses. Just a few weeks ago Plunkett's goals against average (GAA) was close to 2. The number continues to drop, now at 1.13. Plunkett is figuring out how her defense plays in front of her and what the best position for her to be in is.


If GCSU can uphold these keys things will bode well for GCSU this evening against conference foe Lander. But we'll just have to see if that's the case.

Tune in to the broadcast at 6:50 on http://www.gcsuradio.com/ to listen live! Looking forward to calling the game with one of GCSU's finest media personnel, Caleb Rule!

Talk to you from Bobcat Field!

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Bobcat Soccer Finds Offense Against Georgia Southwestern; Last Non-Conference Opponent Next

What a second half by the GCSU women's soccer team this past Wednesday night at Bobcat Field! GCSU scored all three goals in the final fifteen minutes to open up Peach Belt Conference play in convincing style with a 3-0 victory over Georgia Southwestern.

The Bobcats outshot the Hurricanes 41-2. And again, the 'Cats relied on freshman power to lead the way. Freshman forward Katie Taylor has been tremendous all season, as the newcomer slashed home two goals in a four minute span. Taylor has four goals, one assist, and nine points in her first six collegiate games.

Georgia College (3-3, 1-0 PBC) now looks to their last non-conference opponent on Saturday afternoon in West Georgia. The Wolves (2-4) are a steady team. The statistics show that West Georgia has hung with opponents for the majority of the season, but the Wolves just can't get a big break when it matters the most.

Let's hope that big break doesn't come against Georgia College Saturday afternoon. Here's how the Bobcats can fend off the Wolves:

1) FINISH: This was still a problem in the previous game against Georgia Southwestern. With numerous opportunities against the Hurricanes, GCSU was only able to score three goals. It could have easily been a 6-0 blowout. GCSU must capitalize when it matters the most.

2) ENDS OF THE BACK LINE: Sophomores Jamie Colcord and Olivia Holden have been outstanding all season long in the Bobcat backfield as part of the four man defense. Playing the outside spots (left and right sides) is somewhat stressful because there is a lot of field to cover. If these two can keep up the good work, look for another GCSU victory.

3) WARRIOR MENTALITY: This is the last non-conference game of the year for Georgia College. It's easy coming into the game to think this game doesn't matter. If the ladies come out nonchalant, this game could haunt them at the end of the season and possibly cause things to go sour the next few weeks. The Bobcats must play agressive the whole game in order to have a chance.

4) SOMEBODY DIFFERENT: It's been the year of the freshmen for Georgia College. But what happens when other teams start pressuring ladies such as Taylor, Brittany Borror, and Taylor Yee? I'll look for the elders to start stepping up. If junior forward Megan McAlpin can get going, watch out! This offense can get lethal in a New York minute!


Another great cause at the ball game this afternoon put on by the GCSU ladies. It's Barberitos/Salvation Army Night. Bring your older clothes to turn in and you will be entered in for a chance to win a $50 gift card to Barberitos in downtown Milledgeville. It's great to be part of a team that tries to make a difference in the community!

And I hope the Georgia College community joins me this afternoon for the radio broadcast! Air time is set for 4:50 p.m. on 88.9 FM WGUR in Milledgeville or online at http://www.gcsuradio.com/ !

Here's to another prevailing 'Cat win,
Chandler Lee

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

GCSU Falls 3-0 to Barry University; Look to New Week Ahead with Conference Opener

Well this past Sunday wasn't what we envisioned.

The Georgia College and State University women's soccer program was outplayed in every aspect in a dissapointing loss to Barry University 3-0 this past Sunday afternoon. The loss snapped the 'Cats (2-3) two game winning streak as well.

But fortunately for all of us, the sporting world allowed numerous second chances to redeem yourself and that's exactly what the Bobats have to do Wednesday and Saturday night this week.

First up on the slate this week is Peach Belt Conference opponent and foe Georgia Southwestern. The Hurricanes (2-4) have lost two in a row, and have been outscore 11-0 in the past two contests.

So with that being said, here are some things to focus on for a Bobcat win:

1) FINISH: GCSU had multiple opportunities this past Sunday against Barry to score a goal, but couldn't punch one in the pipes. GCSU must finish easy looks, something that was not a problem until this past game.

2) DEFENSE: Multiple defensive lapses possibly cost GC more harm than not finishing offensive sets. Senior Jessica Binkowski and junior Tawny Moffatt must clamp down the holes in the defense in order to prevent easy goals and protect our All-American keeper, Mary Rob Plunkett from being left in "no man's land."

3) SETTLE: GCSU's passes weren't crisp enough. Too many times did we see a good amount of "pop up" passes to our attacking side. If the ball is popped up, it allows the defense to retreat quicker and defend better. Hopefully head coach Hope Clark has adressed this issue and the ball will move fluidly across the field this week.

4) MENTALITY: The Bobcats must come out thinking they will win the game. If you start letting your mindset play tricks on you, the battle is done.


Other stories will unfurl as always! Looking forward to bringing you the action on WGUR 88.9 FM in Milledgeville, or online at www.gcsuradio.com (Listen Live). Airtime is set for 6:50!

It's also "Think Pink Night," at Bobcat Field. Players will wear pink jerseys to support the awareness of breast cancer research. T-Shirts, prizes, and tons of in-game activities will be going on. Come out and support the team and make a difference in trying to rid this horrible disease!

See you and chat with you tonight from the valley known as Bobcat Field!

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Bobcats Upset #13 Florida Tech; Look to Bucs Sunday

What an upset over a perennial powerhouse!

This past Sunday, the GCSU Soccer team upset no. 13 Florida Tech to even their record at 2-2 and garner the biggest upset in the school's soccer program history.

Senior Ally Treat blasted a goal past Florida Tech's keeper off a double assist from freshman Katie Taylor and sophomore Anna Wierzbicki in the second half to put Georgia College up 1-0.

That's all the 'Cats would need, as senior All-American keeper Mary Rob Plunkett was sensational in the pipes with six saves, including a monster snag with :40 seconds to play to seal the win.

Now, GCSU must turn to Sunshine State Conference member Barry University. The Buccaneers are 3-2 after posting a convincing 8-0 victory over Peach Belt Conference member Georgia Southwestern this past Friday night in Milledgeville. The Bucs aren't as lethal of a threat at Florida Tech, but still present some problems. The Bucs have outscored their opponents 21-9 so far this season, 15 of those goals coming from the second half onward.

With that, here are some keys to success for Georgia College:

1) INTENSITY: The Bobcats have had a full week in between games. How fast and aggressive the Bobcats play will tell much of the story this game.

2) FRESHMAN CATALYSTS: Freshman Katie Taylor was part of the goal scored against Florida Tech this past Sunday. Can they keep up the trend and help GCSU get another victory?

3) GCSU BACKFIELD: How well can the defenders stop Barry's attack. Senior Jessica Binkowski and junior Tawny Moffatt will be tested throughout the afternoon by Barry's strikers. The Bucs have outshot opponents 128-54 in five games played this season.

4) WHO WILL STEP UP THIS GAME?: It has been someone new virtually every game for Georgia College this season with a highlight. Who will it be Sunday afternoon?


We'll watch those keys and hopefully another Bobcat victory on Sunday at 1:20. This is still an important stretch for the 'Cats as the next five games are at home. We need you to be there, be loud, and root us on!

Talk to you from Bobcat Field at 1:20 on WGUR 88.9 FM, or online at www.gcsuradio.com!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

GCSU Opens Home Slate With Win; Look to No.13 Florida Tech

What an emphatic start to this crucial nine game home stand for the GCSU Soccer team! The ladies came out determined, focused and took care of business this past Friday night with a 3-0 shutout over Anderson University.

The second annual Bobcat Shootout started with a bang from highly acclaimed freshman Katie Taylor. Taylor netted the first goal of the contest in the first half from a beautiful pass in the box from freshman Brittany Borror. The Bobcats struck early, setting the tone for the rest of the game. Little did they know, that’s all the Bobcats would need to walk away with the win.

A little insurance does help, though! Georgia College struck later in the first half. Borror again led a touch to freshman Alexandra Knight, who pounded one in the upper left shelf of the goal for a convincing two goal lead.

The Bobcats entered the half up 2-0. All was said and done in the second period when senior Jessica Newland hit freshman Taylor Yee, who completed the score from 15 yards out.

The win was the first of the season for Georgia College and also for new head coach Hope Clark.

Sunday the Bobcats have a difficult task at hand, facing off against no. 13 Florida Tech. The Panthers have allowed just one goal this season, while outshooting their opponents 101-9! This is a tremendous team with tons of talent spread across the whole field. GCSU faced the Panthers last year in the first annual Bobcat Shootout, falling 3-0.

Let’s get a little revenge Sunday morning!

The keys for a Bobcat win:

1) FRESHMEN: The newcomers have been sensational all season long in carrying the offense. Can it continue?

2) ELDERS: Can the GCSU juniors and seniors find seams to score to take the pressure off the freshmen? This will be key in a fast-paced game. GCSU needs veteran leadership in this one.

3) THE RETURN OF MRP: All-American keeper Mary Rob Plunkett will be back in the pipes after serving a one game suspension for a red card given to her in the Lynn University game earlier this season. If Plunkett can help save the possible mishaps by the GCSU backfield, this could turn out to be a good ol’ ballgame.


Other stories will unfold as always. But we’ll just have to wait until kickoff to tell you about them!

Join me for the broadcast Sunday morning! Air time is set for 10:50 am on WGUR 88.9 fm or online streaming at www.gcsuradio.com !

Grab a cup of coffee and tune in!

Talk to you from Bobcat Field!

With Bobcat Pride,
Chandler Lee

Thursday, September 9, 2010

GCSU Soccer Set to Kick Off 2010 Home Campaign

A pleasant hello to all!

Tomorrow we embark on a journey. A journey that won’t end until May 2011 for this broadcaster.


Georgia College athletics hit the airwaves once more as we get our first look at first year head coach Hope Clark’s Bobcats and the soccer squad.

GCSU returns home for nearly a month, hosting nine matches in a row on the home turf of Bobcat Field. And we need YOU there to support!

This past weekend wasn’t what we envisioned to start the 2010 campaign for the ‘Cats. The Bobcats dropped two games to start the season 0-2, falling to Florida Southern 2-1 and Lynn University 3-0.

All is not lost, however. These ladies have an immense amount of heart and passion for the game of soccer and it would be presumptuous to give up on them now. Remember this is the team that made it to the NCAA Tourney a short two years ago. The Bobcats have also posted double digit wins the past two seasons.

Sure, a lot has changed. New head coach. New personnel. New names on the team. Big assets have played their last game. But this is college athletics and the competition never founders.

With that being said, what are some keys to success to the 2010 soccer season?

Glad you asked!

1) DEFENSE! Last season was a remarkable year for the Bobcat backfield. With players like Tawny Moffat, Jessica Binkowski, Jamie Colcord, and others the Bobcat defense was able to allow just 16 goals. The teams goals against average was nearly 71 percent ranking no. 29 in the NCAA! Having those big three anchoring the defense will surely prove successful again this season.


2) ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK! This has to be the mindset of the ladies this year. There really is not one “go-to” player on the team, which is suitable because the talent is well spread out. Junior Megan McAlpin led the team last year with five goals, while the team scored a total of 23. The 2008 NCAA Tournament team tallied 40-plus. If Georgia College tries to play “keep-away” for the full 90 minutes, this could be a long season. With Clark on the sideline, the team should be poised to score often if the ladies can find the seams of the defense.

3) LEADERSHIP: This is one of the best senior classes this soccer program has seen since its inception. With players like Binkowski, Ally Treat, Jessica Newland, Kelli McLane, and Mary Rob Plunkett the team shouldn’t lose much. These ladies are competitors, not a pushover by far.

4) HOW STABLE IS THE MIDFIELD? This is one of the big areas I will be watching this season. In the first two games this season, the Bobcats have been outscored 5-1 by their opponents. All five of those goals have come in the second half. Obviously there is either a breakdown in the midfield or on the defensive side. For GCSU to be successful the midfield positions should play strong on both sides of the ball.


There are many story lines this year ranging from Clark’s first season as head coach, the senior class, Plunkett following up her All-American nod last season, and the Peach Belt Conference battles. One thing is for sure, though. We are in for a treat this season.

And I hope you will join us each game on WGUR 88.9 FM in Milledgeville, or as always, online at http://www.gcsuradio.com/ (live streaming).

This weekend’s radio broadcasts:

Fri Sept 10th vs. Anderson: 7:30 PM
Sun Sept 12th vs. Florida Tech: 11:00 AM

‘Cats Prevail!

Here’s to a great season,

-Chandler Lee