Oct. 30, 2009

EASTON, Pa. - It's a game that needs no introduction. And while neither the Lafayette women's soccer team or Lehigh will be battling for a Patriot League tournament berth when they meet Saturday night in Bethlehem, Pa., pride and the intensity of the rivalry is cause for plenty of anticipation going into the 2009 season finale for both squads.

The Leopards go into the matchup after falling to American and Navy last weekend. Lafayette had its offensive chances in a steady rain against American on Friday night, including multiple chances from freshmen Bridget Becker and Jill Dozier, but fell 1-0 to the Eagles.

Less than 48 hours later, Navy used a second half spurt to break the game open en route to a victory over Lafayette.

The Leopards are paced by a strong back four defense and freshman goalkeeper Lauren Smedley that has set the tone in Lafayette wins this season. The defense has notched three shutouts in 2009 and was highlighted by Smedley being named Patriot League Goalkeeper of the Week midway through the season.

The Mountain Hawks enter the game with an 8-4-5 overall record. Liz Carlos paced Lehigh with six goals and five assists on the year while goalkeeper Lauren Mains comes into the game with a 0.71 goals against average in 17 games this season.

Gametime is set for 7 p.m. at Lehigh's Ullrich Sports Complex. Leopard fans can follow the action on Lafayette's Twitter page at www.twitter.com/GoLeopards.com.