The Blue Raiders, who lost at Tennessee 2-1 in overtime during the 2006 regular season, played the Lady Vols to a stalemate in the spring scrimmage. Both spring tournament games were 60 minutes in duration with two 30-minute halves.

Despite the loss of defensive stalwarts Katy Rayburn and Sara Wohlhueter, who were four-year starters, Middle Tennessee's defense has been strong this spring as new players continue to adapt to their roles. Rising sophomore Erynn Murray was in goal for both shutouts at the Tennessee tournament.

"I was really pleased with the team's performance in both games," Middle Tennessee coach Aston Rhoden said. "The Tennessee game was played at a fast pace and was a very evenly-played match. It was good to see our young players match up against a talented Tennessee team. Defensively, we have made progress this spring and continue to improve in areas."

The Blue Raiders defeated Carson Newman, 1-0, with offensive standouts Kala Morgan and Holly Grogan combining for the lone score. Morgan made a crisp cross to Grogan from the left side of the box, and Grogan volleyed over the keeper's head for the game's only goal.

"Carson Newman was a tough game for us, especially after resting only 40 minutes after the Tennessee game," Rhoden said. "Carson Newman is a very good team and they created a lot of problems for us early. We were able to recover late in the first half and played well thereafter.

"All the players have made great improvements this spring and it showed in both games. It was a good showing for us. A major bonus was that we came away without any injuries."

The Blue Raiders completed the tournament portion of the spring schedule with a 3-1-2 record. Middle Tennessee will conclude its spring season with the annual Alumni Game, April 14.

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