Fort Lewis College shuts out N.M. Highlands

by Herald Staff Report

Article Last Updated; Monday, October 05, 2009 12:31AM

For the record

A version of this article listed the Fort Lewis College women’s soccer team national ranking as No. 18. The Skyhawks actually are ranked No. 11.

The No. 11 Fort Lewis College women’s soccer team (10-1-1 overall, 7-1-1 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) continued its rampage through conference play with a 2-0 win against New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, N.M.

“The kids played real well (Sunday),” FLC head coach Damian Clarke said. “I’ve got nothing to complain about.”

The stingy Skyhawks earned their ninth shutout of the season, outshooting the Cowgirls 16-8.

“Our back four and both of our keepers have been fantastic,” Clarke said.

Junior goalkeeper Christine “Cricket” Schmelzle made three saves in 86 minutes of work, with sophomore Kelsy Woodson stepping in late to preserve the clean sheet.

Junior Durango High School graduate Erika Shisler scored the first goal, her third of the season, in the 12th minute to get the Skyhawks on the board.

Sophomore right back Michelle Felten was credited with the assist.

Senior midfielder Samantha Smith gave FLC some insurance when she scored the second goal unassisted in the 83rd minute.

“Highland was better than their record showed,” Clarke said. “We were able to keep the ball really well.”

“The most important thing was to match their physicality. We’ve had trouble doing that this season. That was something a little bit different for us.”

Clarke said all of his players saw action this weekend in preparation for the season’s dramatic climax.

The Skyhawks will get a week off before returning to action at 2:30 p.m. against Metro State at Dirks Field.

heraldsports@durangoherald.com