Box Score
In a conference showdown against the #1 team in the country, Albright women's soccer (6-3-4, 1-2-2 Commonwealth) hung with the visiting Messiah College Falcons (13-0-1, 4-0) in a 4-0 defeat on Tuesday evening at Shirk Stadium.
The Albright defense was up to the challenge in the first half as they limited Messiah to five shots on goal. The Falcons got their first major chance when
Leah Sipe hit the crossbar on a high-arching shot 14 minutes in. Albright keeper
Olivia Giuliano got a partial tip on the shot to prevent the goal.
Even as Messiah dominated possession, Albright continued to fight on the defensive end and kept things scoreless until 12:25 remaining in the first half. Off of a corner kick, a deflected ball found the foot of Messiah's
Mackenzie Clapper. She hit a one-time shot over the head of Giuliano to provide a 1-0 advantage for the away side heading into halftime.
The Lions defensive stand continued into the second half as Messiah's first real scoring opportunity of the half came off another corner kick with 21 minutes remaining.
Ali Rogers struck a loose ball in the box, but Giuliano made a diving save to keep the lead at one.
Messiah expanded the lead to 2-0 at the 17:55 mark. A deflected through ball found the foot of
Corinne Wulf who deposited it in the lower corner off the outstretched hands of Giuliano.
Albright threatened off of a free kick with over 15 minutes to play. From 25 yards out,
Alee Gormley's shot attempt went high.
The Falcons expanded their advantage to 3-0 four minutes later when
Lauren Federline slotted a pass across to
Lisa Wingard. The visitors kept pushing and made it a 4-0 game at the 9:43 mark courtesy of Federline.
In 81 minutes of action, Giuliano recorded nine saves.
Keeley Peltz relieved Giuliano and finished the contest in net. Messiah's
Autumn Reilly made one save on a shot from
Kim Harkins in the shutout.
Messiah outshot Albright 24-2 and also had a 3-1 advantage in corner kick opportunities.
Albright returns to action this Saturday when the Lions travel to Williamsport for a crucial conference matchup against Lycoming College. Game time is scheduled for 3 p.m.
