Only one bench player, freshman forward Kristin Kaiser, managed to crack the lineup in Friday's 1-0 loss to Michigan State, while the Spartans kept their team fresh with six bench players entering as substitutes.
Penn's lack of depth coming off the bench, a problem that came into focus during a rough preseason, became glaring this weekend.
The Quakers' thin cavalry seemed to become a huge factor when the team lost its aggression during the second half Friday and allowed a late goal to take the defeat.
The contrast in depth "probably became a factor mentally as much as physically late in the game," Ambrose said. "It's probably helpful to have fresh legs out there."
But Ambrose was able to give many of his key players rest during the blowout win yesterday over Saint Joseph's, which was important in the hot conditions. It also allowed him to give more bench players some solid playing time.
Penn sent four position players from the bench into the game and even played third-string goalie Gina Winters for the second half.
Junior Maggie Devitt showed a lot of promise when she replaced Marisa Schoen at right-back during the second half. The defense especially needed that boost in the depth department, as the Quakers are very thin and start two freshmen in the back four.
Ambrose was also able to switch many players' positions on the pitch late in the game, which he said would allow his young players to gain experience in different areas.
That, too, may come in handy, given that Eileen Larkin and Kylie Mitchell are the team's only listed defenders who are healthy.
Additionally, the eventual return of injured forward Ellen Gregory will help, though Ambrose said there is no timetable yet for her return.
There is one date Ambrose will be looking at: Oct. 6, the Ivy-season opener. He will have until then to supplement a starting lineup that is calling out for help.
