The women’s soccer team has brought new focus to its offense this season. The team has 37 goals season, right behind conference leader Evansville, who has 40.

“Creating chances and executing them is our daily attacking goal, but scoring two goals a game has been an objective right from the beginning,” head coach Bruce Erickson said. The Bluejays have shown their attacking prowess by taking more shots than any other team in the league.

“Our offensive strategy is to be fast but play to feet. We try to build from the back and move the ball forward,” freshman Kelly Connolly said.

The Jays are 11-6 overall and 2-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference. They were picked to finish first in the league in the preseason polls and are currently ranked fourth.

Marcy Gans has been a powerful force for the Jays up front. The senior forward defends her spot as the leading scorer in the MVC with 14 goals on the season. The four-year starter has been working hard and it’s paying off.

“Marcy has gotten better every year. She strikes a ball harder than anyone I’ve ever seen,” Erickson said. “As a freshman she was dangerous, but over time she continued to work.”

She also leads in total shots, shots per game, points, goals per game and game-winning goals. Her goals this season make her the most prolific scorer in Creighton history.

With the Jays, it is always a team effort. Sophomore midfielder Emily Orbell, junior midfielder Mary Zapapas and senior forward Nicole DeLue each have scored 4 goals this season, showing the offensive depth of the team. Orbell has proven why she was chosen as the 2007 MVC Freshman of the Year. The native of White Bear Lake, Minn., is tied with Gans for the team leader in assists. The defense has remained solid, with senior goalkeeper Kristen Casey ranked third in the conference for average saves per game with 5.44.

The Jays wrapped up the season with a match-up against Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Results were unavailable at press time. Next up for the team is the MVC tournament, which will be held at Morrison Stadium.

“Our goal for the postseason is to win the MVC tournament. I believe this team will respond in a big way,” Erickson said.

Their first tournament match is on Nov. 5. Time is to be announced.