As America East conference play begins to unfold, the University of Vermont women’s soccer team is showing it’s skills.

After a slow beginning to the season, the Ladycats have begun to pick it up in the conference, 1-0-2. There are still some tough mountains for the team to climb  in the near future.

The Catamounts and the conference as a whole have gotten more competitive over the past few seasons.

“Historically, Boston University, Hartford, Stony Brook, and UNH have been the top teams in the conference,” head coach Kwame Lloyd said. “Though this year you cannot look pass anyone; Binghamton and Albany coaches have done a great job recruiting.”

A key for the team to continue with it’s success is to find chemistry on both offense and defense.

“When we play with confidence, and both our offense and defense are clicking we can compete against anyone in the conference,” Lloyd said.  “I am excited the direction we are heading and I am looking forward to the rest of conference play.”

The defense has been looking very sharp recently. Against Albany on Sept. 27 theyallowed only one goal in double overtime. On Oct. 1, they looked even better as they held Maine to a 0-0 tie in double overtime.

Senior captain Rachel Andres has been among the leaders on the defensive side of the pitch.

“Our defense has been very effective and consistent so far this season because of confidence, trust and constant communication in our backline and all over the field,” Andres said. “We plan to take this into conference games, and may make some minor adjustments depending on the personnel of the opposing teams.”

After the game against UMBC, the UVM offense is looking very promising.

The Ladycats scored six goals against UMBC — two from freshman midfielder Jess Herbst and senior captain and midfielder Carson Laderoute, while juniors Jessica Becker and Gabby Bonfigli each scored a goal.

“I think as we have gotten further into the season our attack has improved tremendously. We are all really starting to connect and work for each other up top,” Laderoute said.  “The biggest improvement we could make is our finishing. However, I think we are starting to figure out how to put away goals, which makes us more dangerous.”

The Ladycats are playing their next home game on Thursday, Oct. 15 at Centennial Field against the University of New Hampshire.