Goalkeeper Marilena Spagnolo recorded a career-high 16 saves to backstop the Brock women's soccer team to a 2-0 victory over the McMaster Marauders at Brock Alumni Field on Saturday.
The victory was Brock's first of the season.
Spagnolo, a senior from St. Catharines, stood on her head as the Marauders poured on 28 shots.
"We controlled the pace of the game and capitalized on multiple occasions," said Spagnolo. "As well as on defence we controlled their strikers shutting them down."
First-year midfielder Ivana Kanisek slipped behind the Marauders' defence and recorded her first goal as a Badger in the 35th minute.
Sydney Sica gave Brock a two-goal lead with her first goal of the campaign during the 53rd minute in the second half.
The Badgers have changed playing styles under interim head coach Lucio Ianiero, which means they're focusing on possession rather than sending long balls down the field.
"Our message for the girls is to go out there and play with some confidence," said Ianiero. "We want more short passing and you saw that today as we moved the ball around very well."
McMaster turned up the heat on the Badgers with a number of dynamite scoring chances late in the second, yet Spagnolo shut the door.
Brock goalkeeper coach Mike Folino said Spagnolo's training is what sets her apart.
"Marilena wants perfection," said Folino, who works with Spagnolo and the other Brock keepers three times a week. "Her training is superior and in conjunction with her leadership on and off the field you just get this elite talent."
Spagnolo was extra motivated heading into her senior season. She credits Brock strength and conditioning coach Vicki Bendus and the Brock Sports Performance staff with giving her an edge on the field.
"Consistency is the main factor and taking care of the body during times of fatigue," said Spagnolo, who followed their workout plans religiously during the summer. "The best quote I can give you is from Brock Sports Performance: Success isn't given it is earned."
Up next, the Badgers (1-1-2) travel to York to play the Lions (1-1-2) on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 6 p.m.
