Heading into the season, Salisbury girls soccer head coach Rick Babyak wasn't sure how the team's new defensive scheme would work out.

As the regular season has reached its conclusion, Babyak couldn't be happier with the decision to change.

Switching from a sweeper-stopper defense last season, Babyak implemented the flat back four defense over the offseason. After losing a number of solid defenders from last season's team, it remained to be seen how the change would pan out.

"We graduated a lot of defenders last year, and we had to basically rebuild the defense," Babyak said. "There was some concern from the girls in the beginning of the season - are we going to be able to learn a new system, and how are we going to do it?

"It has been so solid this year all around. That's the part that is exceeding my expectations by quite a bit."

The Falcons have posted eight shutouts in 17 games this season, and have allowed just 16 goals.

"The biggest surprise was that the defense came together so quickly and so well, and has played strongly and consistently throughout the season."

Leading the center of the defense is Kori Hadinger, a Second Team Colonial League All-Star. Her position switch from midfield/forward last season to central defender has paid big dividends for the Falcons. Also in the middle is central defender Tara Jacoby.

"[Hadinger] had to sacrifice scoring some goals," Babyak said. "She scored more goals for us last year, but she really makes our defense strong.

"Every year, [Jacoby] has gotten better and better, and stronger and more confident in her game."

Amy Zamora and Paige Ackerman have occupied the outside of the defense all season.

"[Zamora] is the player who has improved the most over her four years at Salisbury," Babyak said. "The other outside defender is Paige Ackerman, and she's been solid on the right side for us."

One of the team's more pleasant surprises has been the play of sophomore goalkeeper Jordan Kamp. After senior goalkeeper Shannon Pennella went down early in the season with an injury, Kamp has filled in tremendously. She was recently selected as a First-Team Colonial League All-Star.

"They are both good keepers," Babyak said. "But Jordan [Kamp] has been playing out of her mind. She's earning the right to be in there."

Katelyn Bucchin will also be recognized as a Second-Team Colonial League All-Star when the teams are announced at this week's playoff games.

While the Falcons just missed out on a spot in the league playoffs, Babyak has been pleased with the level of play he has seen. The Falcons had three losses by one goal, all coming on penalty kicks.

The Falcons will have one more regular season match, on Wednesday at Palisades, before they begin play in districts.

"It definitely was always in the back of my mind, and we always wanted to try and get into the league playoffs," Babyak said.

"We've had such a good season when you look at the numbers. Our record has improved, [and] the quality of our play has improved all around."