On a Thursday night in Ohio, VCU Women’s Soccer brought the ruckus to Dayton at Baujan Field. Riding a 4 match win streak along with staying among the A-10 pack for first place, the Rams put the Flyers in a no-fly zone on the road.

Fasten Your Safety Belts

The Black & Gold got on the scoreboard after 12 minutes of gameplay. Kelly Graves and Alyssa Tallent moved the ball upfield to Samantha Jerabek. Tallent found Jerabek with a through ball that was finished at the near post. Jerabek celebrated amongst her VCU squad with her 8th goal of the season as the Rams roared ahead early.

There were limited opportunities on offense during the first half. Both teams traded fouls in battles of possession, however, strikes were limited. Ingrid Brouwer did take one VCU strike that sailed over the goal and Emma Kershner’s strike missed the target just before halftime.

Floodgates Opened by Rams

VCU’s advantage over Dayton was displayed further amongst the 2nd half kick-off. Jerabek went to work with a promising cross in the 53rd minute. That cross found Tallent’s boot and after a touch/cut combo to create space the goal was scored near post.

Things would get worse for the Flyers minutes later. Jerabek once again created a chance with her dribbling down the wing. Another cross soared into the box and Graves ran towards it. Graves connected and sent the ball cracking into the back of the net to put VCU ahead 3-0.

Dayton could not get their offense going on the night. Audrey Sanderson did see some action in goal for the Rams with 2 saves. VCU’s midfield and defensive game plan of keeping the Flyers on ground level did the job. So was the attack of the Rams which was still hungry for one more goal.

Points Secured, Streak Still Kicking

In the 83rd minute, Tallent collected her second goal of the match. Maddi Santo found Tallent on the cross in the center of the box. Nearly identical to earlier goals scored, the ball was struck near post and past the goalkeeper. Full time arrived in Ohio and VCU headed off the pitch with all 3 points and a 4-0 win over Dayton.

VCU out-struck Dayton 12-9 with 6 of those strikes hitting the target. Rams remain unbeaten in the Atlantic 10 at 3-0 with 9 points. VCU improved to 8-2 overall and keep their current streak alive at 5 consecutive victories.

Sports Backers Stadium awaits VCU Women’s Soccer return home on Sunday, September 30th versus Duquesne. This A-10 conference match will begin at 2:00 PM.

Mark Turner

Mark graduated from VCU in 2014 with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. He started as a fan of the Black & Gold in the stands his freshman year. Mark was known as "Kazie" for his charismatic fandom with the VCU's student organization the Rowdy Rams. While at VCU he gained experience in sports media with WVCW on a sports radio show called Rowdy Radio. Following graduation, Mark continued crafting his social media skills with the Richmond Kickers while also handling VCU coverage. He is a true fan of the Rams and vocally passionate on and off camera. After the final whistle, you can probably find him at local RVA bar or brewery enjoying a drink and conversation.