The Lancaster Bible College women's soccer team lost to Alvernia on opening day last season, 3-1. They went on to a 15-8 record and a very productive postseason. Hopefully the trend continues in 2011. 

The Chargers lost their opening game to the Crusaders for the second straight season, this time, 1-0 in Reading, Pa. Alvernia's Erin Stone scored with 15:53 to play and the Crusaders held off the Chargers for a shutout win.

"I thought it was an excellent game," Chargers' Head Coach Ken Craul said. "It was a big transition from how we played last Saturday in our scrimmage."

Craul said Alvernia controlled play late in the first half, but after halftime, the Chargers evened out play and controlled the ball more.

"Our transition out of our defensive end needs to improve," Craul said. "That in-turn will help our midfield transition and we will get better opportunities to score."

Craul said the defense played very well, especially senior Rebekah Weidel and freshman Sarah Heilenman.

"Heilenman played very well, especially in her first collegiate game and especially because she hasn't played defense before," Craul said. "She takes the ball out of the air so well."

Craul said Weidel played one of the best games of her collegiate career.

"She was solid tonight and played very well," Craul said.

The Chargers had some offensive opportunities, tallying seven shots and five corner kicks, but Craul some adjustments will need to be made before LBC's next game.

That next game will be Tuesday night at Goucher in Towson, Md. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Notes:
-LBC is now 0-3 all-time against Alvernia.

-The Chargers are 1-8-1 in their season openers all-time.