PITTSBURGH, Pa.—Franciscan's women's soccer team bounced back from a loss two days before and pulled out a 2-1 win against Chatham University. The Lady Barons came out ready to play and possessed the ball most of the game while peppering the Cougar's goal with shots.

"I would definitely say the score was deceiving in regards to the percentage of possession," head coach Clare McBane said. "I think the girls possession of the ball was the best it has been in any game yet."

Not only did the Franciscan players possess well but nine different players took a total of 20 shots and half of which were on goal. After Chatham scored in the 19th minute the Lady Barons didn't back down and continued to possess and attack.

Franciscan's first goal came after junior midfielder Katie Roemer went in for a tackle and drew a foul from a Chatham player, awarding the Lady Barons a penalty kick. Last season's leading scorer, Ashley Ruttencutter took the PK and nailed it straight into the back corner of the net.

"It is unfathomable pressure on a person to take a penalty kick and she took it with grace and very effectively and efficiently did what she does best," McBane said.

Another Lady Baron proving her offensive efficiency this season has been sophomore transfer Hannah Cooke who yet again, to give Franciscan the 2-1 lead. With an assist from midfield freshman Susanna Almeida, Cooke took the ball inside the 18 and launched a powerful shot past the Cougar keeper.

The goal gave Cooke her sixth goal of the season, all of which have come in three of Franciscan's four wins.

On the other end of the field the defensive line played another game without team captain Hannah Castree. Playing without her height and finesse in the back line and leadership on the field has been a challenge for the Lady Barons. McBane said she is proud of the way her team adjusted and is hopeful to have Castree back in soon.

"They played really hard and I'm really proud of the effort they put it," McBane said. "Their quick transitions and movement really showed their work effort."

The Lady Barons have the weekend to rest and get ready for their next game on Sept. 16 at 5p.m. at home.