COLLEGE SOCCER
Owens CC women win regional crown
Theaker, Grindle goals help team to win
11/5/2013Maumee’s Elizabeth Theaker's first-half goal ended up being the game-winner as the Owens Community College’s women's soccer team defeated Cincinnati State Technical and Community College 2-0 Sunday in the NJCAA Region XII championship game.
Theaker juked a defender and lofted a 25-yard shot over Cincinnati State's Kelsie Lee at the 20:51 mark to give the Express an early lead.
With Cincinnati State pressing late in the game, Jessica Grindle of Northwood took a pass from Northview graduate Haley Gasser at the 85:15 mark and deposited it into the right corner of the net to seal the game.
Erika Brinkman started in goal for the Express and made five saves. She produced two shutouts in the tournament.
The Express have won 15 straight matches, which extends a program record. Owens also won their 17th game, which is the most in school history.
With the win, the No. 19 Express (17-2) advance to the NJCAA national tournament in Melbourne, Fla. on Nov. 18-23. The tournament features a pool play and championship round.
Grindle's goal was her 21st of the season, which ties the program mark for the second-most goals in a season. She was named the tournament MVP.
Theaker's goal was her third of the season, and she was selected to the all-tournament team.
Gasser's assist was her 11th of the season, increasing her program career record to 27. Burkholder and Brinkman were also named to the all-tournament team.