BOX SCORE

BOLIVAR, Mo. -- The SBU Bearcats stretched their unbeaten streak to four games, as they defeated the Emporia State Hornets 3-0.

Lindsey Boden

Lindsey Boden struck first for the 'Cats in the 18th minute, then Rhiane Mitchell added a goal of her own less than a minute later to give SBU a 2-0 lead that would end up being more than enough for the win. Freshman goalkeeper Megan Link earned her second shutout of the young season, and her current 0.54 goals against average is on pace to be the second-best season from an SBU keeper in program history.

"We played a solid game, for an entire 90 minutes," commented coach Rob Podeyn after the match. "We still haven't played our best soccer, and I think that's a really good thing. We're still improving, and I think our best soccer is still to come."

SBU outshot Emporia, 24-7, and dominated possession of the ball. The Bearcats also led in corner kicks taken, by a margin of 10-2. "We dictated the pace all game. I think ESU never had an answer for our attacks, but we do have to play them again, and they will be more prepared for us the next time we see them." said Podeyn.

Sophomore Rhiane Mitchell's goal in the 19th minute was her first of the season, in just her second game back from injury. Mitchell, SBU's leading goal scorer last season, saw about 15 minutes of playing time in last week's match against Dallas Baptist, but got her first start of the year today, playing about 25 minutes. Coach Podeyn said about Mitchell, "I felt like it was important for Rhiane to get the start, and scoring that goal will be a huge boost to her confidence."

Jaymye Ross connected on her third goal of the year in the 90th minute, to make the final score 3-0. Ross also was credited with an assist on Mitchell's goal, giving Ross eight points in just four games so far this season.

SBU looks to continue their streak Saturday, September 12, as they host the Lions from Missouri Southern. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.