Sophomore steps up

By Jason Jenks

Friday, September 19, 2008

It’s no big secret as to how sophomore defender Katie Williams scores goals, no special plays or unique strategies to explain it.

Instead, Williams finds the back of the net simply because she’s in the right place at the right time.

“I’m expected to go up on corners and put the ball in the back of the net or get an opportunity for the forwards,” Williams said. “And that’s what I do. I just happen to get a goal out of them.”

Still, it doesn’t diminish the sophomore’s accomplishments early in her career. Williams’ four career goals have come in her last eight games stretching back to last season.

“It’s an added bonus,” Williams said. “I’m not a goal scorer, I’m not a forward, but it gives a new perspective.”

Williams scored her first goal of the season against Missouri State last Friday when she finished a cross from teammate Sara Rogers just inside the 18-yard box.

And it’s not a coincidence: nearly all of Williams’ goals are scored in a similar fashion.

“Katie’s aggressive,” coach Mark Francis said. “She’s in the box and attacks the ball. That’s one of the reasons I put her in.”

Williams started the final 18 games at defender last season after then-sophomore Jenny Murtaugh injured her leg, finishing the season with three goals.

That experience and familiarity with her teammates helped build Williams’ confidence. And it’s something Francis continues to see this season.

“Katie’s made huge strides in a year,” Francis said. “She’s become more consistent and more confident with every game.”

— — Edited by Ramsey Cox

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