KRISTIN WRIGHT, WOMEN'S SOCCER
Freshman goalkeeper Kristin Wright proved to be the difference-maker in the women's soccer team's clash with national No. 13 Williams on Saturday. Matching her career high of nine saves, Wright preserved the teams' double-overtime shutout despite the Ephs' relentless offensive efforts. Williams outshot Tufts 17-7 on the day, but Wright was up to the task, preventing several close calls off her line — including twice in the second overtime period.
Wright has only recently assumed the starting role for the Jumbos following an injury to sophomore Phoebe Hanley. But the rookie has not disappointed, quickly becoming an integral part of Tufts' talented defensive unit, which, with Saturday's tie, has seven shutouts on the season, tied for the most in the league.
Wright, who now boasts a .925 save percentage, has moved into second place in the NESCAC in that category.
--
SAM DISS, FOOTBALL
The football team may have blown a 24-14 lead against Williams on Saturday but lost in the Parents Weekend defeat was the show put on by sophomore cornerback Sam Diss, who has Jumbo fans excited for the defense's future.
Late in the first half, with the Jumbos down 14-10, Diss made his third interception of the season — good for second in the NESCAC — which sparked a lengthy Jumbo touchdown drive to put Tufts ahead 17-14 at the half. Early in the second half, Diss recovered a Williams fumble and returned it 35 yards for a score — his second defensive touchdown of the season.
Diss was named the NESCAC Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts and is currently third in the NESCAC with seven passes defended. He also contributes on special teams, averaging a gaudy 19.2 yards on kickoff returns, including six returns for 128 yards on Saturday.
