The Hofstra women’s soccer team has struggled this year, going 0-4 in CAA conference play. But the Pride was able to secure the win against CAA rival Elon University, defeating the Phoenix by a score of 3-1.
The Pride struck early on; in the second minute of the game, Jill Mulholland assisted Kristin Desmond for her sixth goal of the year, which is second most to Mulholland’s eight goals this season. Mulholland and Desmond have shown constant offensive prowess throughout this tough season for the Pride.
The two New York natives lead the team in goals, assists and points. Mulholland is also first in the CAA in points, goals and shots taken and is second in assists. But, she does not really care for statistics too much. “I just want to keep winning,” Mulholland said.
The Pride came into the matchup having dropped its last four games, all to conference opponents, so this was a must win game.
“Unbelievable relief that we finally got a win,” said head coach Simon Riddiough. “A little bounce our way for once, and you got to give credit to our team to battle throughout this 90 minutes.”
Less than two minutes into the second half, Mulholland added on a second goal for the Pride, unassisted, her ninth goal of the season. Ten minutes later, the Pride struck again, this time with Noriana Radwan putting one in the back of the net after receiving a cross from Mulholland.
“Noriana has had a bit of a slump lately but she stepped up today,” Riddiough said. “I think the extra effort and concern has started to prove diligence for her.”
Hofstra’s defense shut down Elon’s attack for the entire game, with Elon’s only goal coming in the 82nd minute.
“It all starts with our front three,” Riddiough said. “Our back four stood strong. Maddy Anderson, Kelly Gerdes, Brianna Doran and Emily Agudelo just did a really solid job, and I’d be remiss to not mention Emily Hulbert … she came in and gave a lot of solidity to that midfield.”
The Pride continues its quest to climb the CAA standings, if the Pride wants to make the playoffs, it needs to win three of its remaining four games.
“There’s no easy ‘gimmies,’ but there is a certain confidence when we play at home,” Riddiough said. The Pride’s remaining four games will all be at Hofstra Soccer Stadium.
