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Smyth Helps Ireland To Upset in Thailand
August 09, 2007 | Women's Soccer
Aug. 9, 2007
BANGKOK, Thailand - University of Louisville junior women's soccer player Shannon Smyth is representing Ireland in the 24th World University Games in Thailand. The games, which take place every two years features over 200 countries in 15 sports and continue through August 19.
On Thursday Smyth set up the only goal in a shocking 1-0 upset of Germany. Ireland lost the opener to North Korea 3-0 with Smyth starting and playing all 90 minutes of both matches. They will now face Thailand, the final team in their group, on Saturday. The top two teams in each group advance to the quarter finals.
"We are very happy for Shannon that she has been chosen to participate in the World University Games for Ireland. Playing for Ireland is a goal of hers and playing in this tournament will only elevate her chances of attaining that goal," noted Cardinal Head Coach Karen Ferguson.
Smyth, whose father was born in Ireland, is playing for a team that is coached by Noel King, the head coach of the full women's Irish National Team.
"Shannon is coming off of a wonderful spring season for us, and now she is playing in a very prestigious tournament against some great international talent so we know she will be able to make an impact on our program when she returns. We look forward to her return to Louisville as we are watching and following her results in the tournament very closely," Ferguson added.
At the last World Games, Ireland lost in the quarter finals to eventual champion China.
The Cardinals will begin fall practice next week and open the season on August 21 at Tennessee in an exhibition match.
Louisville is coming off of its most successful season in school history, posting 13 wins, earning a national ranking and advancing to the NCAA's for the first time in school history.
