Aug. 18, 2008

ATHENS, Ohio - Defense stole the show for Ohio women's soccer as the Bobcats battled ACC foe Virginia Tech to a 0-0 tie in exhibition play Monday night in Blacksburg, Va.

"We took a lot of pride in our defending tonight," Ohio coach Stacy Strauss said. "Our midfielders did a great job getting back and helping deep, and our goal keepers played very well. I was very pleased to be able to pick up a shutout."

As was the case in nearly all of its matches a year ago, Ohio engaged the opposition in a close fight and refused to fade at the end. The Hokies had some chances by the goal late in the contest, only to see the Bobcats hang tough and knock a pair of potential game-winning shots away.

Juniors Jess MacLean and Christa Puccio both played well between the posts as the duo teamed up to shut out Va. Tech, while a slew of Ohio defenders enjoyed strong evenings as well.

Ohio will play its second and final exhibition in preparation for its 2008 campaign Sunday when it travels to Highland Heights, Ky. to take on Northern Kentucky. Action is set to get underway at 11 a.m. ET.