DALLAS, Pa. - A goal in the 7th minute and another in the 79th proved to the difference Wednesday as Eastern Women's Soccer dropped a 2-0 decision at Misericordia on Wednesday night. The host Cougars took control of the game early, controlling both possession and field position to build an early advantage they would not relinquish.
Larissa Evans notched the first goal for the Cougars off a crafty setup from Julia Hayward. Following a strong ball from the Misericordia back line, Hayward one touched a pass through the box to a streaking Evans. The sophomore went on to punch the ball into the bottom left corner of the net to put the Cougars ahead.
With its early strike, the Cougars took control, outshooting the Eagles 17-2 in the opening 45 minutes of play. The Eagles did not record their first two shots of the match until the final eight minutes of the first frame. The Eagles' best chance to tie the match came in the 42nd minute. Sophomore
Tatum Roidl intercepted an errant pass just outside the box, but her ensuing shot was saved by Misericordia goalkeeper Marisa Patrissi.
The Eagles continued to press the attack early in the second half, firing off three shots, two of which came off of corner kicks. Eastern, however, could not find the equalizer. First-year
Corrine Myers had another quality opportunity in the 78th minute, but her shot was also saved by Patrissi. Just over a minute later, Misericordia's Jyanna Mendola pounced on a loose ball on the left side and finished top right to double the Cougars' lead and eventually secure the win. Roidl led the Eagles with three shots, while
Faith Leake made six saves.
Eastern (2-3) will be back on the road Saturday for a 6:00 matchup against Rutgers-Newark.
