Blackburn Scores Game-Winner in OT

HILLSIDE, N.J. (9/6/06) - Kean University junior midfielder Shannon Blackburn (Vernon, N.J.) scored the game-winner off a rebound just three minutes into the second overtime, as the Cougars outlasted FDU-Florham, 2-1, in women's soccer action on Wednesday afternoon. Kean improved to 2-0, while FDU-Florham dropped to 2-1 this season.

In a rematch of last season's Eastern College Athletic Conference Metro Region Championship Game in which the Devils won the title on penalty kicks, the Cougars jumped out to the early lead as senior midfielder Brienne Campbell (Freehold, N.J.) floated a direct kick over the Devil goalkeeper less than two minutes into the contest.

FDU-Florham tied the game later in the first half, as junior midfielder Lena Kalika (Green Brook, N.J.) found the back of the net following a rebounded shot.

After battling the final 60 minutes of regulation and the first overtime session, the Cougars controlled play and Blackburn picked up the loose ball in the box following a shot from freshman midfielder Jenna Godwin (Kingwood, N.J.).

The Cougars controlled the game, as they held a 33-11 edge in shots and a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks.

In goal, Kean junior Samantha Groh (Mason, Mich.) made three saves in the first half, while freshman keeper Meghan Baker (Rockaway, N.J.) played the final 58 minutes without having to make a save for Kean. For the Devils, senior goalie Melissa Braun (Sayreville, N.J.) made 14 saves.

The Cougars return to action on Saturday, September 9, when they travel to Manhattanville College in non-conference action at 1 p.m.