Women's College Soccer
Saint Peter's College 2, Rider University 1
LAWRENCEVILLE-Despite out-shooting the Peahens 35-7, the Broncs lost a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference game to Saint Peter's Friday night. "We dominated the game but that doesn't mean you win," said Rider head coach Drayson Hounsome. "This is a cruel game sometimes."
Rider (9-6-4, 2-4-2 MAAC) took a 1-0 lead mid-way through the first half on a give-and-go play with freshman Amber Mello (Mattituck, N.Y./Mattituck) scoring on an assist from junior Abi Cottam (Leominster, England/Ludlow).
Saint Peter's (3-14-1, 2-6 MAAC) tied the score 10 minutes later and took a 2-1 lead with seven minutes left in the first half on a direct kick. "Saint Peter's scored two good goals," Hounsome said.
Rider had nine shots on goal to Saint Peter's five. "We worked hard 'till the very end," Hounsome said.
Cottam leads the MAAC in goals (14) and points (38) and is second in assists (11) and ranks ninth in the nation in points, 10th in assists and 15th in goals.
Rider freshman goalkeeper Danielle Singson (Deer Park, NY/St. Anthony's) made three saves. Caitlin Hoffer made eight saves for Saint Peter's. "The Saint Peter's goalie made some great saves," Hounsome said.
Rider won 2-1 at Saint Peter's last season. Rider defeated SPC 1-0 in the 2009 regular season finale in Lawrenceville. Rider and Saint Peter's have now met 16 times since the series began in 1997 with Rider winning 12. The last time SPC defeated Rider was 2005.
Rider hosts Manhattan Sunday in the season finale. "We have to play for pride now. Our expectations were very high this year," Hounsome said. "Not making the MAAC tournament is more devastating."
Rider has no seniors on this year's team, with everyone returning next year. "That gives us all an opportunity to redeem ourselves next year," Hounsome said. "August can't come quick enough."
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