"I don't think you'll see that happen again. Defensively, we're much more disciplined than we were earlier in the season," Flionis said. "Our overall game is stronger now, too."

If the Crimson can neutralize Lyons and take the ball upfield, they will run into the other strength of the Providence team, the imposing presence of sophomore goalie Jen Mead.

"Mead is one of the strongest goalies in Division I soccer," Flionis said. "She's a great athlete, tactically smart, and she has a great natural sense in the goal."

So far this season, Mead has a 9-3-0 record, and has allowed 11 goals in 12 games for a 0.94 goals-against average.

Out of Position

But in front of her lies the weakness of the Providence squad.

Because of a lack of depth on defense, Crapeau has been forced to start two midfielders in the back-field, one of them at sweeper.

Their inexperience at their new positions could be the chink in the Friars armor.

"While they are good athletes, they are not natural defenders," Flionis said. "They are inexperienced and cautious."

If the Crimson can take advantage of this weakness, Mead could be in for a long day.

She may be a great goalie, one of the best in the country, perhaps. But as Weinstein put it, "she can't stop them all."

The rumble will start at 2:00 this afternoon.