The Hofstra University women’s soccer team fell 2-1 against the University of Delaware on Sunday, Sept. 22. The loss is the Pride’s first in conference play this season.
The result moves Hofstra to 1-1 in Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) play, while Delaware is now 1-0.
The match was tightly contested throughout. The Fightin’ Blue Hens took the lead on a goal from Ava Sallee. The defender’s strike from 30 yards out was too powerful for Hofstra goalkeeper Mackenzie Sullivan. The Pride quickly responded as Mathilde Braithwaite leveled things in the first half. Her shot beat Delaware keeper Kyla Burns to find the top left corner. Defender Gabriella Marte was awarded the assist, the first of her career.
The two sides went into the break tied at one a piece. Hofstra head coach Simon Riddiough made a change in net for the fourth consecutive game. Freshman Synne Danielsen played the final 45 minutes for the Pride.
The second half was much livelier than the first. Both sides combined for 10 shots, including five on target. Hofstra forced Burns into four saves in the final 45 minutes. Despite having more chances, The Blue Hens found the winner in the 81st minute. Forward Maggie Groh netted the winner following a nice bit of skill before she fired the ball into the roof of the net. Groh recorded three shots in her 30-minute cameo.
Following the goal, the Pride went on the offensive. Aimee Hodgson and Louise Hayden had efforts on goal in the final few minutes of the game. The Blue Hens stood tall, however, to preserve the victory, 2-1.
Delaware’s winner marked the third consecutive game in which the Pride conceded in the final 10 minutes of the match. Two of which led to losses. Hofstra has only kept a clean sheet in two of their matches this season.
For the Pride, five players had shots during the game, all were on target. Additionally, Hofstra had four freshman features during the match. Defender Ava Pickard made her debut coming on for Thea Bergsten with the freshman playing 13 minutes.
For the Blue Hens, Groh, Willa Pratt and Morgan Tilley all had multi-shot afternoons. Burns notched five saves on the day to propel her team to victory.
Finally, four cautions were dealt during the match. Hofstra midfielder Millie Davies received one of three yellow cards for the Pride. For Delaware, both Ava Agresti and Morgan Tilley were given cards late in the match as the Blue Hens were held onto their lead.
The Pride will return home for another CAA match against Towson University. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29.
Photo courtesy of Royce Dickson-Child