ITHACA, N.Y. – The Ithaca College women's soccer team suffered its first loss of the season on Saturday afternoon, falling to No. 14 The College of New Jersey, 1-0, at Carp Wood Field.
Both teams entered the contest undefeated, with Ithaca holding a 4-0-1 record and TCNJ sitting at 3-0-1.
The Lions controlled much of the early possession, testing Ithaca goalkeeper
Katrina Varnum, who made an early save on a low shot. The Bombers' defense also came up with several key blocks as TCNJ looked to create offensive opportunities.
Ithaca began to find its footing as the half progressed.
Lilyana Baldi recorded the Bombers' first shot of the contest, which was saved, while
Riley Butler helped generate pressure by carrying the ball into the attacking third. Neither team was able to break through, and the two sides entered halftime tied, 0-0.
TCNJ continued to apply pressure early in the second half, with Varnum making another save off a cross into the box. Ithaca responded with several chances of its own, including a header off a corner kick that went just wide and a long-range attempt from
Mia Medearis that was saved by the Lions' goalkeeper.
The Bombers continued to push forward, but TCNJ broke through with 26 minutes remaining to take a 1-0 lead.
Ithaca's defense kept the Bombers within striking distance as
Kyra Lynch headed a ball out of the box, while Butler cleared another dangerous chance away from the goal. The Bombers earned a set piece just outside the box with 12 minutes remaining, but the attempt went wide.
Ithaca continued to search for the equalizer in the final minutes.
Jayne Bogle's corner kick was cleared by TCNJ, while
Meghan Maragioglio and Butler each had late attempts that were blocked by the Lions' defense.
The Bombers were unable to find the equalizer as TCNJ held on for the 1-0 victory.
Varnum finished with five saves in the contest, while Ithaca recorded four shots on goal.
The Bombers will look to bounce back when they host rival SUNY Cortland at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Carp Wood Field.
