Blue Raider spring soccer match cancelled

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - The first soccer match of Middle Tennessee's 2008 spring season against Tennessee Tech was scheduled for Wednesday but the Blue Raiders will have to wait 10 more days before taking the field against an actual opponent.

The Blue Raiders began spring practice earlier this month and were looking forward to putting training to test against Tennessee Tech but the Golden Eagles have been riddled with injuries and they can't field a team.

Middle Tennessee will compete in its first spring action against Samford and Kennesaw State in Decatur, Ala., March 29. The Blue Raiders also play host to an April 5 tournament that includes Belmont, Austin Peay and North Georgia College, the April 12 Alumni game, and they will conclude the spring with 7-v-7 tournament in Jacksonville, Ala., April 19.

"I have been pleased with how we have returned to spring practice with focus and attention to detail and we are looking forward to getting on the field and seeing our practice put to work against an opponent other than ourselves," Middle Tennessee coach Aston Rhoden said. "The Tennessee Tech match was going to be a good test because they have a solid program but we understand the circumstances.

"This will give us more time to continue working on certain areas that need more attention. Our spring schedule is one that certainly will test our players and provide our team with competitive games as we prepare for the fall season."

2008 Spring Schedule
March 29 1 PM vs. Samford; 3 PM vs. Kennessaw State - Decatur, Ala.
April 5 9 AM vs. Belmont; 11:30 AM vs. North Georgia College; 3:30 PM vs. Austin Peay - Murfreesboro, Tenn.
April 12 5 PM vs. MT Alumni - Murfreesboro, Tenn.
April 19 7-v-7 Tournament (Time TBD) - Jacksonville, Ala.