MARCY, N.Y. – The SUNYIT Women's Soccer Team (1-1-1, 1-0 NEAC) picked up its first win of the year on Saturday, defeating first-year NEAC opponent Penn College of Technology (1-2, 0-1 NEAC) by a score of 1-0.
Kristina Strang (Rotterdam, N.Y. / Schalmont) netted the game-winner for the Wildcats in the 86th minute.
Strang's goal broke a defensive battle, particularly in the first half which saw only 8 combined shots by the two teams. Freshman Corrina Marconi (Rochester, N.Y. / Gates-Chili) accounted for two of SUNYIT's shots, placing a pair of close tries just over the crossbar.
In the second half another Wildcat freshman pressed the action. Alexis Forgit (Morris, N.Y. / Morris) engineered a breakaway opportunity, running neck-and-neck with a Penn defender. The 5-foot-5 striker was almost taken down but kept her footing, and was able to get a point-blank shot from the right side. Unfortunately for SUNYIT, the keeper cut down Forgit's angle and was able to block the shot. Forgit would have a similar opportunity just minutes later, this time down the center of the field, but gave the ball perhaps one touch too many as the Penn keeper was able to smother the shot before it materialized.
Forgit's opportunities were indicative of a much more aggressive SUNYIT team in the second half, as the Wildcats out shot the visitors 9 to 1 over the final 45 minutes.
Excellent play on the back line by defensive backs Erica Maisonet (Walkill, N.Y. / Walkill) and Alicia Wittmann (Rome, N.Y. / Rome Free Academy) allowed SUNYIT to apply pressure up front. This pressure finally paid off in the form of a free kick for Strang from just right of the penalty box. Having a tough angle, the Penn goalkeeper dared Strang by leaving the near side somewhat open. The senior made her pay, letting loose a flawless bender that went just inside the near post. The recovering keeper was able to get a hand on the shot but couldn't stop it from crossing the line.
SUNYIT will look to get another NEAC win as they host St. Elizabeth at Wildcat Field tomorrow. Game time is slated for 12:00 pm.
