BOX SCORE WEST HAVEN, Conn. — The New Haven women's soccer team (0-2-1) settled for a 2-2 draw against Monroe (0-0-1) on Friday evening at Kathy Zolad Stadium. The Chargers took an early lead with two first-half goals, but Monroe equalized in the second half to share the points.
The first half began with New Haven establishing early momentum through aggressive play.
Emma Mitchell (Edinburgh, Scotland/Liberton) capitalized on a penalty kick at the 13:49 mark, giving the Blue & Gold an initial lead. The team sustained pressure, and Mariana Alves extended the advantage with her first goal of the season off an assist from
Molly Heras (Pt. Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant Borough High School) in the 18th minute, bringing the score to 2-0. This assist was the first of the season for Heras.
Monroe responded later in the period with a goal by Nicole Jendrzejczyk, assisted by Magdalena Polronniczak, narrowing New Haven's lead to one. Despite Monroe's efforts, the Chargers maintained their advantage, heading into the break with a 2-1 lead.
The second half began with New Haven's defense holding strong against Monroe's early pressure, with
Jordan Galica (Vernon, Conn./Rockville) making a crucial save at the 51:45 mark. The Chargers responded with offensive efforts from
Lola Wood (Auckland, New Zealand/Diocesan School), who registered two shots shortly after play resumed. Despite several attempts, including a shot by
Elena Horvaht (Stirling, N.J./Watchung Hills Regional HS) that required a save, New Haven was unable to find the back of the net.
Midway through the half, Monroe capitalized on a penalty kick, leveling the match. New Haven continued to press, with Mariana Alves and
Emma Mitchell (Edinburgh, Scotland/Liberton) contributing shots on goal, both stopped by Monroe's goalkeeper. The half closed with the Blue & Gold striving to regain the lead, but it remained 2-2 at the end of regulation.
Emma Mitchell (Edinburgh, Scotland/Liberton) scored one goal on three shots, converting a penalty kick for New Haven.
Molly Heras (Pt. Pleasant, NJ/Point Pleasant Borough High School) contributed with an assist, marking her impact in the game.
Jordan Galica (Vernon, Conn./Rockville) made four saves, facing nine shots on goal, a season-high for the team. Mariana Alves added another goal, with two of her three shots on target.
Up Next, New Haven will travel to face Sacred Heart University on Thursday, Aug. 27. The match is set to take place in Fairfield, Conn.
