The 16th-ranked Siena Heights women’s soccer team hosted the SHU Classic tournament on the weekend of Sept. 10. The tournament consisted of three other teams, Madonna, Roosevelt (Ill.), and Robert Morris (Ill.).

The Saints faced Roosevelt on the first day of the tournament. Erin Scheidel and Samantha Bartelotti had contributed a goal each by the third minute of play. Before the game, SHU was warned that Roosevelt would be a team that can stick around if they are not taken care of quickly. Roosevelt proved this to be true by answering back with a quick goal, making it a 2-1 game by the fourth minute.

Siena Heights answered Roosevelt’s goal with several more of their own. Emily Burkman, Lexi Gainer, Bartelotti, and Emily Loar each scored a goal for the Saints. Taylor Mulder put three shots in the back of the net, also. The abundance of goals for the team allowed younger players to have the opportunity to get on the field and for other players to rest for next days’ game. Overall, the Saints enjoyed an easy 9-1 win over Roosevelt.

With only a short time to rest and rehydrate, the team knew the next day of the tournament would be more challenging. Going into the game, the girls said Robert Morris would be one of the toughest opponents they have versed so far in the season.

Playing two games in just two days can be demanding on an athlete.

“Playing games back-to-back is mentally and physically exhausting, but my teammates help me get through it,” said junior defender Burkman.

Although the Saints outshot Robert Morris, the game stayed at a score of 1-1 with Burkman finishing a cross from Mulder in the first half. The two teams stayed tied from the halftime and through double OT.

The Saints said they were not happy with the result.

“Playing a game the day before definitely had an impact on our bodies. I don’t like to use that as a crutch though because Robert Morris also had a game the day before that went into double OT. I think we need to find ways to mentally get over those bumps. That’s where having heart has to come into play,” said center midfielder Lexi Gainer.

At this time, Siena Heights has a 3-2-2 record.