The St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM) women’s soccer team continued their ascent in the latest United Soccer Coaches Region IV poll, moving up from No. 6 to No. 5 this week. Released Tuesday afternoon (Sept. 24), the poll reflects a strong showing by the Seahawks, who remain the only team from the United East Conference to be ranked in the region.
The rise in the rankings comes on the heels of a dominant week for SMCM, during which the team posted a 2-0 record with consecutive 1-0 shutout victories. The Seahawks bested The Catholic University of America on Sept. 18 and Elizabethtown College on Sept. 21, both of which are regionally-ranked opponents.
First-year midfielder Alyssa McLane (Port Republic, Md./Calvert) secured the game-winning goal against Catholic University, while junior captain Ashlyn Bonner (Ellicott City, Md./Wilde Lake) delivered the deciding score against Elizabethtown College. McLane’s goal against Catholic contributed to an important win against a team ranked eighth in Region V.
A key to the Seahawks’ success last week was the performance of first-year goalkeeper Kyleigh Bland (Arnold, Md./Broadneck). Bland recorded both shutouts, compiling 11 saves over the two matches. Her consistent presence in goal has helped bolster the team’s defensive efforts, making her a standout during the crucial stretch of games.
The Seahawks now hold an overall record of 7-1-1 as they prepare for their next challenge—a non-conference road match against Marymount University in Arlington, Va. on Wednesday, September 25, at 6 p.m. Marymount enters the game with a 1-5-2 record. St. Mary’s will look to extend its winning streak and further solidify its standing in the regional rankings.
The team’s recent success against highly-ranked opponents underscores their growing potential this season. With a balanced mix of offensive firepower from players like McLane and Bonner, and strong defensive performances led by Bland, the Seahawks are positioned to continue their rise in the rankings.
SMCM’s head coach Peter Krech has worked to instill a winning mentality in the team, which has already started to pay dividends in this early part of the season. The Seahawks are aiming to build on this momentum as they head into the midseason stretch, hoping to maintain their regional standing and compete for postseason opportunities.
The Seahawks will have several key matchups in the coming weeks, with a mix of non-conference and United East Conference games that will be critical to maintaining their regional ranking. The team’s ability to perform under pressure, as seen in their close victories, could prove to be an asset as they continue their campaign for a standout season.
St. Mary’s College fans will be watching closely as the Seahawks head to Arlington for their next game, hoping the team can carry forward the momentum of their recent wins.
