By finishing the 2009 campaign at 14- 6-1, the UMass Boston women’s soccer team completed the greatest season in program history. Along the way, the Beacons smashed a number of school records. It’s a feat that would have any locker room still buzzing. But don’t expect the Beacons to be gushing with overconfidence anytime soon. While the records and accolades might bring about a sense of pride and accomplishment, they fall short in bringing about the one thing the Beacons have been fighting for: respect. A perfect example can be seen in the Little East Conference preseason poll. Even though they beat Western Connecticut 1-0 last year, the Beacons found themselves one spot behind the Colonials at number 4. Head Coach Amy Zombeck isn’t surprised. “It’s one thing to be successful in breaking records, but it’s another thing to be successful in winning championships,” she said. “We’re constantly trying to gain the respect of our opponents. There’s no overconfidence, we just work everyday to get closer and closer to becoming champions.” That hard work has certainly paid off, as the Beacons are off to the best 4-game start in school history at 2-1-1. The Beacons have found the back of the net 10 times for an impressive average of 2.5 goals per game. However, they’ve also allowed an average of 2.25 goals per game. Only Southern Maine have allowed more in the LEC. It’s still early in the season, but compared to last season’s mark of 1.14 goals allowed per game, it has to be an area of concern. “We’ve given up more goals then we’d like,” said Zombeck. “Especially on situational pieces. But we build on our weaknesses and continue to work on our strong aspects as well.” One of the latter has to be the sensational start by freshman forward Tayla Andrews (Plymouth, MA). Andrews has given defenders the fits this season, finding the net an astonishing 5 times already. She’s scored multiple goals in a game twice this season, as well as knocking home a pair of game-winners. Her 10 points currently lead the team. She also ranks second in the LEC for goals scored and points. “[Andrews] compliments our system really well,” said Zombeck. “She’s hard nosed and has a knack for knowing where the goal is. She’s dangerous both on and off the ball.” Andrews isn’t the only freshman who’s helped contribute to the Beacons early success. Midfielder Samantha Cristoforo (Rockland, MA) and forward Ally Modzelewski (Newton, MA) have also made their mark. “These kids come in wanting to win and wanting to be on the field,” said Zombeck. “They’ve practiced hard everyday and have earned that right. It also helps that the veteran players have taken them under their wings. It’ll only help them become better, especially because they haven’t seen the conference yet, and that can make or break you.” One of those veteran players is junior forward Kristin Mulry (Holbrook, MA). She’s gotten off to a quiet start with only one goal so far, but don’t expect that to continue. The junior netted 17 goals for 37 points last season for the second highest total in school history. Her performance earned her LEC first team honors. In only 2 seasons, Mulry is the school’s all-time leader in points with 68, as well as being tied for first in career goals with 32. With Andrews taking away much of the defense’s attention, look for Mulry to capitalize. Also look for junior midfielder Molly Kuchar (Asheville, NC) to play a major role in the Beacons’ success this season. After mononucleosis hampered her in the beginning of last season, the junior has wasted no time making an impact this season. Her goal and 2 assists have her currently ranked second on the team with 4 points. Kuchar holds the UMB career assists record with 15, while her 29 points have her 4th in career points. “We have these juniors and seniors who’ve been here through it all,” said Zombeck. “They’ve been here since we transitioned from a last place team into a winning team.” The Beacons’ push to continue these winning ways should be helped by a favorable conference schedule. The Beacons play host to the conference’s two top teams, Eastern Connecticut and Keene State. Winless against both programs in their 15 year history, the Beacons can use all the help they can get. Win one or both, and the Beacons have a real shot at accomplishing thier pre season goals. “wewant to win the LEC at the very least,” said Zombeck. “It’d be nice to continue breaking the school records we’ve set year after year, but at the end of the day, we just want to be number one in the conference. That remains our main focus.