FAIRFIELD, Conn. — The New Haven women's soccer team (0-3-1) lost narrowly to Sacred Heart University (4-0-0) with a final score of 1-0 on Thursday at Park Avenue Field. The Chargers' goalkeeper Alexia-Mae Goodman made 11 saves, facing a total of 21 shots from Sacred Heart.
The first half commenced with Sacred Heart applying early pressure, but the Blue & Gold defense remained resilient. Alexia-Mae Goodman, the goalkeeper for New Haven, made several key saves, notably denying a penalty kick by Shea Kelleher in the 33rd minute.
New Haven managed to create offensive opportunities, with shots by
Grace Simpson (Norwalk, Conn./Brien McMahon) and
Lola Wood (Auckland, New Zealand/Diocesan School) missing the target. As the half concluded, the score remained tied at 0-0, with New Haven's defensive effort keeping Sacred Heart at bay.
The second half began with Sacred Heart capitalizing on an opportunity as Riley Pettigrew scored in the 54th minute, putting the home team ahead. New Haven responded with a shot on goal by Simpson in the 61st minute, which was saved by Casey Mulligan.
New Haven's defense held strong, with Goodman making several crucial saves, including stopping shots in the 65th and 79th minutes. Despite multiple attempts to equalize, the Chargers were unable to break through Sacred Heart's defense. The half ended with Sacred Heart maintaining its 1-0 lead.
Goodman recorded 11 saves over 90 minutes, demonstrating resilience in goal. Simpson contributed offensively with four total shots, one of which was on target. Wood added to the team's attacking efforts with one shot during the match.
Looking ahead, the Blue & Gold will host Seton Hall University on Sunday, Aug. 30, at 1 p.m. The match will take place at Kathy Zolad Stadium in West Haven, Connecticut.
