Match Recap
EWING, N.J. – In a dominant display, the No. 12 ranked TCNJ women’s soccer team rebounded from their first loss of the season with a commanding 5-0 victory over Kean in New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) play.
The Lions, now with a record of 6 wins, 1 loss, and 2 draws, showcased an impressive offensive performance, scoring five goals courtesy of five different players.
Match Highlights
- Early Breakthrough: Jenny Ward opened the scoring just 140 seconds into the match, capitalizing on a defensive error to net her fifth goal of the season.
- Freer Finds the Net: Caroline Freer struck in the 20th minute, scoring on a well-executed corner taken by Samantha Rizzi to double the Lions’ lead.
- Naughton’s Milestone: Less than three minutes later, Katie Naughton scored her first college goal, finishing a brilliant combination play involving Ward and Emily Weidner.
- Alfano’s Precision: Alyssa Alfano made it 4-0 in the 58th minute with a perfectly placed shot after receiving a pass from Maddie Nolan.
- Guido’s First Goal: Anna Guido capped the scoring with her inaugural collegiate goal, firing a powerful strike from outside the box at the hour mark.
Statistical Overview
The Lions dominated the statistics, outshooting the Cougars 35-2, with 11 shots hitting the target. TCNJ also earned 12 corner kicks compared to Kean’s three. A total of 31 players participated in the match for TCNJ, showcasing the depth of the squad.
Player Performances
- Ward extended her scoring streak to three consecutive games, leading the team with five goals and 14 points, including four assists for the season.
- Alfano recorded her third goal of the year, demonstrating her scoring ability.
- Freer reached a personal best this season with her second goal.
- Rizzi notably started for the first time in her career, contributing with an assist.
- Goalkeeper Ellen Williams secured one save during her time on the field.
Match Notes
TCNJ has maintained an impressive streak, having won the last 13 encounters against Kean. Additionally, Corinne Russo made her first appearance as a starter, while both Riley Fitzpatrick and Madeline Dubler made their collegiate debuts in goal.
Looking Ahead
Next up, the Lions will face off against No. 25 Montclair State in a critical NJAC matchup on Wednesday, October 7.
