Wittenberg Loses Early Lead, Game To St. Vincent

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio - The Wittenberg Tigers came out of the gates strong against visiting St. Vincent, a quality NAIA scholarship program from Pennsylvania, but as the darkness and cold set in, the Tigers couldn't keep pace, eventually falling 14-10 in their 2005 home opener.

The Tigers got off to a solid start, taking a 6-4 lead midway through the first half, but St. Vincent, led by Shoko Asakura's seven goals, rallied with a 9-2 spurt that encompassed the last 12 minutes of the first half and most of the second frame as well. The Tigers got no closer than within three goals at 11-8 in the final 30 minutes.

Wittenberg's defense had a tough night as St. Vincent put together several outstanding offensive attacks and seemed to have the upper hand throughout. Sophomore Clare Bucheit started in goal and played the first 45 minutes, allowing 13 goals and making six saves. She was relieved by freshman Sarah Zane, who allowed a goal and had a save.

Offensively, Wittenberg was paced by senior Jenny Burns, who scored four times and added an assist. Sophomores Kari Thomas and Michelle Hanners added two goals apiece and freshmen Amber Cupples and Emine Cirpili rounded out the Tiger goal-scorers. Cupples led with two assists and Hanners added one.