Ball control: Freshman defender Kyle Parsons (18) has adjusted to the east coast’s more physical style of soccer.

Both tall and lanky at around 6-0, their soccer backgrounds are based on technique more than physical play. Other than their jobs on the field — Pereira plays forward and Parsons is a defender — the roommates do almost everything together, with the routine of soccer and homework interrupted mainly with talk about… soccer.

The ball is launched in the air and it’s up to one person to make the save. The goalie waits for her instincts to take control and blocks the ball from entering the goal. The fans, on the edge of their seats, are biting their lips, waiting as the goalie dives to make the great save and ensure a victory.

This year, Cornell women’s soccer has three equipped goalies that are all counted on each game to anchor the defense. The squad recruited two talented freshmen, Megan Bartlett and Kelly Murphy, to help in the Red’s defensive tactics, along with returning starter Jodi Palmer.