GRINNELL— Posting its fifth shutout of the season and third in a row, the Central College women's soccer team tied Grinnell College 0-0 Wednesday.
           
The Dutch (4-1-3) and Pioneers (2-2-2) were close in most statistical categories as well, with Central holding a slight shot differential of 14-9.
           
"Today was a good battle between two good teams," coach Mike Kobylinski said.
           
Central put six shots on frame, including four in the second half. Paige Cahill (senior, Castle Rock, Colo., Castle View HS) had five of the shot attempts while Amber Santana (junior, Indio, Calif., Shadow Hills HS) and Grace Coates (junior, Marion) each had three.
           
"What I like about our group this year is we aren't satisfied with a tie," Kobylinski said. "We know we can play with more urgency."
           
Goalkeeper Zoey Sizemore (freshman, Omaha, Neb., Mercy HS) made five saves to keep the Pioneers off the board. Katy Brown (sophomore, St. Charles, Mo., Orchard Farm HS) and Bridget Lynch (fifth year, Northglenn, Colo., Jefferson Academy) anchored the back line for 90 minutes again.
           
"I am pleased with another shutout today," Kobylinski said. "Our goalkeeper and backline did very well to keep the shutout."
           
Central opens American Rivers Conference play with a 5 p.m. match at Simpson College Saturday.
           
"We've played a tough non-conference schedule to prepare our team for what lies ahead," Kobylinski said. "Simpson is going to be a tough opponent to start play in a tough American Rivers Conference."