LADY TIGERS' 'D' KEY TO SEASON

Playing defense in soccer is a lot like being an offensive lineman in football.

It's definitely not a glory position. If you're looking for headlines, soccer defenders, just like offensive linemen, rarely make the grade -- or even get mentioned in the articles at all, for that matter.

But, like linemen, defenders play a crucial role in their sport. A poor defense likely will result in limited success, no matter how good a team's goalkeeper or offense is.

As Cape Girardeau Central High's Lady Tigers get ready for their first-ever state final four appearance, coach Tom Doyle was quick to laud a defense that has provided plenty of support for standout goalie Heather Hey.

"The defense in soccer sometimes gets overlooked," said Doyle. "But it's such an important position."

Central's defense has been rock solid during this sensational, school-record 26-1-2 season. The Lady Tigers have allowed only 16 goals all year as Hey has posted a school-record 19 shutouts.

"Our defense is awesome," said Hey, a sophomore.

The Lady Tigers' five primary starting defenders are sophomore Ashlie Voerg at sweeper; senior Erica McDonald and sophomore Alyssa Holyfield at wingbacks; and juniors Lorie Bittle and Jennifer Daume in the midfield.

Lending defensive support off the bench have been senior Annie Christian, sophomore Sarah Brown and freshmen Cameron Bennett, Katelin Robinson and Lesley Augspurger.

"Heather takes charge back there," said Doyle. "She's a good leader. She's kind of quiet, but she directs the people in front of her well. If the defense does its job, she doesn't have to make that many saves."

Particularly impressive was the defensive job the Lady Tigers did during Saturday's 2-0 quarterfinal win over House Springs-Northwest that lifted Central into the state's final four.

With Daume and Bittle forming a strong double-team, Northwest star Debbie Stark -- who had 43 goals this year -- was rarely a threat during the contest.

"I was pretty worried (about Stark), but I knew Jennifer and Lorie would do it," Hey said.

Just as the Lady Tigers' defense has done it virtually all season.