Eastern Michigan Athletics
Eastern Insider Podcast - Season 7 - Episode 6
9/30/2024 8:43:00 PM | Football, Soccer, General
Murphy Shines Against Kent, Sipsock Eyes MAC Success
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YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- In Episode 6 of the Eastern Insider podcast, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner kick things off by sharing some humorous anecdotes about household appliance troubles before diving into Eastern Michigan sports. They recap the football team's dominant 52-33 win over Kent State, highlighting the defensive standout performance of linebacker Luke Murphy, who secured MAC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Murphy's eight tackles, one interception, and one fumble recovery were key in EMU's victory, and the hosts express excitement for the Eagles heading into the bye week with a 4-1 record.
The episode also touches on the defensive strengths of EMU soccer, with a feature interview with star forward Olivia Sipsock. Nicknamed the "Scicluna Sniper," Sipsock discusses her successful start to the season and her desire to help lead the team to the MAC Tournament. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork and finding offensive consistency, as the Eagles have struggled to score in recent matches.
Helmer and Steiner also address broader sports topics, including the state of college football conference realignment, offering their thoughts on potential shifts that could impact the Mid-American Conference. They end with a preview of EMU's upcoming home games, including football matchups against Miami and Central Michigan, and touch on special events like The Temptations performing at the Oct. 12 game.
Segment 1
EMU soccer standout Olivia Sipsock discussed her strong start to the season and her journey with the team. Sipsock expressed excitement about her personal performance, with three of her four goals scored at home. Reflecting on the impact of new head coach Taylor Clark, Sipsock emphasized the team's unity, noting that despite the coaching change, no players left the program, thanks to their close bonds on and off the field.
Sipsock also highlighted the team's improved chemistry and enthusiasm since Clark's arrival, which has contributed to more wins this season compared to last year. Despite this progress, the primary goal remains to qualify for and succeed in the Mid-American Conference tournament.
Known for her knack of being in the right place at the right time, Sipsock discussed the challenge of scoring in soccer, attributing it to strong defenses, talented goalkeepers, and the overall speed of the game. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and staying positive, especially during tight matches, like the recent draw against Central Michigan.
Looking ahead, Sipsock remains optimistic about the team's chances in the MAC, believing that with continued effort and focus, they can achieve their goal of winning a MAC championship. She also expressed gratitude for the supportive team environment and the deep connections she's built with her teammates, which have made her time at EMU truly special.
Segment 2
Linebacker Luke Murphy reflected on his standout performance in the victory over Kent State, Sept. 28, where he recorded eight tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Murphy, a former Kent State player, expressed gratitude to his teammates and coaching staff, noting how their preparation and support allowed him to make key plays. He emphasized the significance of his interception, explaining that the team had practiced for that exact scenario.
Murphy highlighted the importance of the third-quarter turnovers that swung the momentum in EMU's favor. He acknowledged Kent State's energy after they tied the game early in the second half but credited EMU's defense for staying focused and making game-changing plays. He also discussed the team's "next man up" mentality, with various players stepping up to fill gaps caused by injuries.
Murphy spoke highly of defensive coordinator Ben Needham, praising his leadership and their shared connection as former Kent State affiliates. As the Eagles head into a bye week with a 4-1 record, Murphy expressed confidence in the team's potential but stressed that there's still room for improvement. He concluded by emphasizing that every game in the Mid-American Conference is a challenge, and the team must treat each matchup with equal intensity.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- In Episode 6 of the Eastern Insider podcast, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner kick things off by sharing some humorous anecdotes about household appliance troubles before diving into Eastern Michigan sports. They recap the football team's dominant 52-33 win over Kent State, highlighting the defensive standout performance of linebacker Luke Murphy, who secured MAC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Murphy's eight tackles, one interception, and one fumble recovery were key in EMU's victory, and the hosts express excitement for the Eagles heading into the bye week with a 4-1 record.
The episode also touches on the defensive strengths of EMU soccer, with a feature interview with star forward Olivia Sipsock. Nicknamed the "Scicluna Sniper," Sipsock discusses her successful start to the season and her desire to help lead the team to the MAC Tournament. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork and finding offensive consistency, as the Eagles have struggled to score in recent matches.
Helmer and Steiner also address broader sports topics, including the state of college football conference realignment, offering their thoughts on potential shifts that could impact the Mid-American Conference. They end with a preview of EMU's upcoming home games, including football matchups against Miami and Central Michigan, and touch on special events like The Temptations performing at the Oct. 12 game.
Segment 1
EMU soccer standout Olivia Sipsock discussed her strong start to the season and her journey with the team. Sipsock expressed excitement about her personal performance, with three of her four goals scored at home. Reflecting on the impact of new head coach Taylor Clark, Sipsock emphasized the team's unity, noting that despite the coaching change, no players left the program, thanks to their close bonds on and off the field.
Sipsock also highlighted the team's improved chemistry and enthusiasm since Clark's arrival, which has contributed to more wins this season compared to last year. Despite this progress, the primary goal remains to qualify for and succeed in the Mid-American Conference tournament.
Known for her knack of being in the right place at the right time, Sipsock discussed the challenge of scoring in soccer, attributing it to strong defenses, talented goalkeepers, and the overall speed of the game. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and staying positive, especially during tight matches, like the recent draw against Central Michigan.
Looking ahead, Sipsock remains optimistic about the team's chances in the MAC, believing that with continued effort and focus, they can achieve their goal of winning a MAC championship. She also expressed gratitude for the supportive team environment and the deep connections she's built with her teammates, which have made her time at EMU truly special.
Segment 2
Linebacker Luke Murphy reflected on his standout performance in the victory over Kent State, Sept. 28, where he recorded eight tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Murphy, a former Kent State player, expressed gratitude to his teammates and coaching staff, noting how their preparation and support allowed him to make key plays. He emphasized the significance of his interception, explaining that the team had practiced for that exact scenario.
Murphy highlighted the importance of the third-quarter turnovers that swung the momentum in EMU's favor. He acknowledged Kent State's energy after they tied the game early in the second half but credited EMU's defense for staying focused and making game-changing plays. He also discussed the team's "next man up" mentality, with various players stepping up to fill gaps caused by injuries.
Murphy spoke highly of defensive coordinator Ben Needham, praising his leadership and their shared connection as former Kent State affiliates. As the Eagles head into a bye week with a 4-1 record, Murphy expressed confidence in the team's potential but stressed that there's still room for improvement. He concluded by emphasizing that every game in the Mid-American Conference is a challenge, and the team must treat each matchup with equal intensity.
Players Mentioned
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