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Grand Junction, Colo. – The #18 ranked Colorado Mesa University Women’s Soccer Team is gearing up to conclude their regular season schedule this week in anticipation of the playoff series, as they prepare to host the competitive Westminster University Griffins at the picturesque Community Hospital Unity Field.
The highly anticipated matchup between the Mavericks and Griffins is set for Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 4 p.m., followed by an exciting men’s soccer game later in the day.
Both teams have already secured their spots in the competitive postseason, with the Mavericks currently holding a strong grip on second place, thus claiming the coveted #2 seed in the upcoming RMAC Women’s Soccer Championship. The Griffins have also clinched a playoff berth but will finalize their seeding based on the outcomes of this week’s matches. Fans can look forward to additional details regarding the locations and seedings to be announced later in the week.
Entering tomorrow’s match, Colorado Mesa boasts an impressive overall record of 12 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, highlighted by a remarkable 10-1 tally within RMAC play. Their sole conference defeat came against the formidable #1 ranked Colorado School of Mines this past weekend. Prior to that setback, the Mavs were riding high on a nine-game winning streak that extended from late September to the beginning of November.
With a dynamic offensive strategy, the Mavericks have marked themselves as one of the top three teams in the RMAC this season, having outscored their opponents 32-14 over the course of 16 matches. They are currently averaging an impressive 2.00 goals scored per game while maintaining a defensive grip that allows merely 0.88 goals against. Their average of 15.9 shots per game also positions them third in the conference.
A total of eight distinct players have found the back of the net for CMU this season, with standout Sauvelyne Randel leading the charge, netting eight goals thus far, which ranks as the third highest in the RMAC.
Alongside Randel, key players Sarah Dunn, Adessa Correa, Kylie Wells, and Braelyn Baclayon each have contributed significantly, each netting four goals this season, demonstrating the team’s balanced attack.
Braelyn Baclayon has emerged as a powerful asset for the Mavericks in recent games, scoring three goals in the last five contests, showcasing her growing impact on the offensive front.
Randel further proves her significance on the field not only as a scoring threat but also as a pivotal playmaker, leading the team in assists alongside Carli Dare, with both players tallying five assists this year. Dare has showcased her talent with two standout games in which she recorded multiple assists.
The defensive unit, particularly the goalkeeping, has been another cornerstone of the Mavericks’ success this season, contributing to the team’s standing among the top defenses in the RMAC with only 14 goals conceded, and just seven of those in conference play.
Keely Wieczorek has been the anchor of the defense, starting all 16 contests, amassing 43 saves while recording an impressive eight shutouts this season. Throughout her career, she has accumulated a total of 18 shutouts, needing just two more to break the school record.
In the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 National Poll, the Mavericks successfully maintain their position at #18 in the nation following the latest results and proudly hold onto the #3 spot in the South Central Region rankings.
THIS WEEK’S OPPONENT
The Mavericks are scheduled to face off against two opponents this week, beginning with their crucial matchup against Westminster tomorrow, leading into the RMAC Women’s Soccer Championship, which commences on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Hailing from Salt Lake City, Utah, the Griffins come into this matchup with a record of 7 wins, 4 losses, and 4 draws, bolstered by an RMAC record of 5 wins, 3 losses, and 3 draws. Their latest game ended in a defeat to Colorado School of Mines with a score of 3-0.
The Griffins have demonstrated their offensive prowess this season by outscoring opponents 28-14, with 21 of those goals scored during conference play. Leading the charge for Westminster is Necie Gubler, who has tallied six goals, while her teammate Chloe Pickett follows closely with five goals this season.
Westminster has relied on a trio of goalkeepers this season, with Brooklyn Northcutt seeing the bulk of the action, starting in 15 games. She has made 34 saves while allowing only 12 goals against, helping the team maintain an impressive defensive average of 0.93 goals allowed per game.
Fans eager to attend tomorrow’s game can purchase tickets online at cmumavericks.com/tickets. Additionally, the match will be streamed live on the RMAC Network for those unable to attend in person.
**Interview with Coach Amanda Martinez from Colorado Mesa University Women’s Soccer Team**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Coach Martinez. The team has had a stellar season so far, currently ranked #18 nationally. How does it feel to be heading into the postseason with such momentum?
**Coach Martinez:** It feels amazing! The girls have worked incredibly hard all season, and it’s great to see their efforts recognized. Being ranked #18 nationally is a testament to their dedication and skill. Our focus now is on the playoffs, and we’re excited for the challenges ahead.
**Editor:** You’re set to face Westminster University in the last regular season match. What can you tell us about the team’s preparation for this game?
**Coach Martinez:** We’ve been preparing diligently. Westminster is a formidable opponent, and our strategy revolves around maintaining our offensive strength while tightening up our defense. We need to play our game and stick to our tactics to secure a win.
**Editor:** Your record speaks volumes, especially with a 10-1 conference performance. What do you believe has been the key to your success this season?
**Coach Martinez:** Our balance has been crucial. We have multiple players contributing on both ends of the field. From Sauvelyne Randel as a leading scorer to our solid defensive unit led by Keely Wieczorek, it’s been a collective effort. The team chemistry is truly something special this year.
**Editor:** Looking ahead to the playoffs, how do you assess your team’s strengths and what areas do you think need to be fine-tuned?
**Coach Martinez:** Our offensive output has been impressive, averaging 2.00 goals per game, and our defense has held strong with only 14 goals against. However, we need consistency in our performance and must remain adaptable to different styles of play we may encounter in the postseason.
**Editor:** You mentioned Keely Wieczorek’s impressive goalkeeping. How has her performance impacted the team’s overall success?
**Coach Martinez:** Keely has been phenomenal. Her ability to make critical saves and maintain composure under pressure has been a game-changer for us. Her leadership on the field gives the team confidence knowing we have a reliable defender in the back.
**Editor:** With the playoffs approaching, what message do you want to send your team as they head into these crucial games?
**Coach Martinez:** I want them to embrace the moment. Play with confidence, keep the intensity high, and remember why we love the game. It’s about enjoying every minute and fighting for each other out on the field.
**Editor:** Thank you, Coach Martinez, for your insights. Best of luck in the final match and the playoffs!
**Coach Martinez:** Thank you! We appreciate the support and look forward to making our fans proud.
