Krieghoff Sets the record — Mustangs clinch tournament bid

Elise Krieghoff smashed the career goals record at Cal Poly in less than three full seasons. By Owen Main

Cal Poly women’s soccer beat rival UCSB 2-0 on Sunday afternoon. People could talk about the fact that Cal Poly clinched a bid into the Big West Tournament they’ll host in two weeks. They could also talk about the fact that, with the win, the Mustangs’ men’s and women’s teams went a collective 1-0-1 against rival UCSB this weekend. But neither of them will.

Because, Elise Krieghoff, you guys.

Krieghoff, a junior at Cal Poly, has put together a three-year assault on the Cal Poly and Big West Conference record books. On Sunday, she scored her 46th goal of her career — a new Cal Poly record. The Big West Conference record-holder is  Jennifer Borcich of UCSB, who scored 56 goals between 2001-04. Krieghoff, who scored five goals in a match against Fresno State earlier this season, could threaten that record by early next year.

Aside from a two-game losing streak at the beginning of conference play, the Cal Poly women’s soccer team might be having a better season than a year ago. They are playing with real confidence and purpose right now, and they host the conference tournament. It will be interesting to see if the students at Cal Poly come out and support the women in the tournament like they do the men during a UCSB game.

Thanks for waiting

I decided to ride my bicycle to today’s game, and it almost cost me a chance to see history. Getting across town took about 10 minutes longer than I anticipated, so when I saw the 1-0 score as I approached the stadium, my heart sank a little.

Lucky for me, Cal Poly’s first goal was by Megan Abutin with a Krieghoff assist. I quickly changed out of my cycling shoes, but before I could even tie my tennis shoes, the Mustangs broke on offense and Krieghoff netted the record-setting goal — after which I tied my shoes.

Krieghoff’s’ record-setting goal. By Owen Main

Senior day

Sunday was Senior Day for the four seniors on their roster. After the game, Krieghoff spoke highly of them all, but especially spoke highly of Sara Lancaster. Lancaster, a freshman when Krieghoff was being recruited, scored eight goals that season. As Krieghoff came to SLO, Lancaster was someone she looked-up to. After today, everyone is looking-up at Krieghoff in the Cal Poly record books.

Senior Tracy Hong, a key outside defender for the Mustangs, once again did not play. She is working to rehab an injury and hopes to be back in time for the conference tournament.

Cal Poly finishes their regular season at Cal State Fullerton next Saturday night before hosting the conference tournament starting the following Thursday. The game at Cal State Fullerton can be watched on ESPN3.

Photos by Owen Main

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