Notre Dame, Ind. - The Holy Cross women's soccer season came to an end early Saturday afternoon. The Saints looked to get their first Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference win of the season, but Judson denied that chance. The Eagles defeated the Saints 3-1, and with the loss the Saints finish the season 2-16 overall, and 0-12 in CCAC play.
Before the match began, the Holy Cross Athletics Department honored seniors Kaylee Ables, Karina Cain, Sierra Covington, Hayley Deisinger, and Vanessa Sanchez. Each player has made their mark in the Saints record books and were acknowledged for what they have done on and off the field for Holy Cross College.
The Saints and Eagles played an evenly matched first half with neither team being able to capitalize on shot opportunities. The Eagles were able to fire off 11 shots in the first period, but the senior Deisinger stayed true to form, not allowing a single goal. The Saints knowing that this was their final game of the season came out fired up in the second half. In the 52nd minute, Karina Cain weaved in and out of defenders, and crossed the ball across the field to fellow senior Sierra Covington. Covington fired the ball into the back of the net to give the Saints a 1-0 lead on Senior Day. With the assist, Cain placed herself tied for most all-time points in Saints history. Covington's goal was her second of her career, with her first coming two years ago against Andrews University.
The Eagles went on a ten minute tear beginning in the 68th minute, that placed the game out of reach for the Saints. The Eagles fired in three goals (68', 72', 75'), two of which coming after incredible saves from Deisinger. The Saints were unable to regain momentum, and went on to fall to Judson 3-1.
Covington recorded both of the Saints shots on the afternoon, while Deisinger recorded 9 saves in her final appearance in goal for the women's soccer program.
The Saints say goodbye to five seniors who have made a lasting impact on the program's history. Kaylee Ables ends her career finishing in the top ten in program history in games played, games started, and total minutes played. Ables tenacity on defense was her trademark during her career in a Saints uniform. Vanessa Sanchez ended her career with one goal coming against Robert Morris this season. Sanchez' goal was the first ever against the Eagles against Robert Morris from a Saints player. Sierra Covington leaves the program scoring two goals and finishing in the top ten in games played and total minutes. Covington battled through multiple injuries this season to end her career on a high note, with the Saints lone goal on Senior Day.
Hayley Deisinger will leave the program with nearly every record possible as a goalkeeper. Deisinger has led the nation in saves the past two years as well as shots faced. Deisinger will be #1 in games played, minutes logged, total saves, save percentage, and most importantly most overall wins as a goalkeeper. Karina Cain, despite playing as a defender this season, ends her career tied for first in total goals, total points, and is the sole leader in made penalty kicks. Cain will also leave the program as the leader in minutes played and games played.
The Holy Cross Athletic Department would once again like to thank these five young women for their positive impact on Holy Cross College.
