Women’s Soccer Winning Streak Ends in Sweet 16
By Bryson Eldridge – Co-Managing Editor
The University of Scranton women’s soccer team saw their season end with a 2-0 loss to the Misericordia Cougars in the Sweet 16 matchup at Mangelsdorf Field in Dallas.
The Cougars jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the 1st minute of the game as Misericordia forward Ally Waite powered a shot into the top corner of the net off a corner kick. The Cougars kept the pressure on offensively almost extending their lead, but sophomore goalie Nicole Olson was able to save a shot by Esabella Mendola to keep the score 1-0 in the 24th minute.
The Royals offense began to generate chances towards the end of the first half with shots by senior Evelyn Bruggeman and freshman Dani Orecchio being blocked by Cougars goalie Madi Welliver to keep things 1-0 at halftime.
In the 51st minute the Cougars extended their lead to 2-0 behind a goal from Colleen Kinsella which avoided the outstretched arm of Olson. The Cougars defense remained strong throughout much of the second half keeping the Royals out of the attacking end.
The Royals offense had chances to cut in the deficit late in the second half attempting four shots in the final 11 minutes. All shots were saved by Welliver to finish the shutout for the Cougars.
This marked the second straight Sweet 16 appearance for the Royals who advanced on penalty kicks against Bowdoin and notched a 3-0 victory over Westfield State last weekend.
The Royals’ 2022 roster featured five seniors and a graduate student in Stephanie Lowrey, seniors Teresa Hegarty, Bruggeman, Devon Schroeder, Claire Sites and Noelle Walker. During their careers, this senior class helped lead the program to three Landmark Conference championships, two undefeated conference seasons and consecutive Sweet 16 appearances.