NORTH ANDOVER, MA – A crucial three points were on the line Saturday afternoon when the Rider women's soccer team delivered an impressive performance, defeating Merrimack 3-0 in North Andover, MA. This victory marked their first conference win of the season, igniting hopes for a strong finish as they move deeper into MAAC play. With this crucial win, the Broncs improved to 1-4-2 in conference play and 2-7-3 overall.
Sophomore forward
Noa Menzing was the standout player of the match, scoring two goals that showcased her skill and determination. Menzing opened the scoring early in the first half, capitalizing on a
Tess Ferrie cross to slot the ball past the goalkeeper in the 29th minute
Menzing's second goal came just minutes into the second half at the 52nd minute, as she found the back of the net again with a powerful shot from an
Ava DeGeorge corner, further extending Rider's lead to 2-0.
With the game nearing its conclusion, freshman forward
Tess Ferrie added to the scoreline, striking with just one minute remaining. Ferrie's goal, a well-placed shot after a cross from
Noa Menzing, not only sealed the victory but also highlighted the team's relentless offensive pressure throughout the match.
On the defensive end, goalkeeper
Ellie Sciancalepore delivered a standout performance, recording her fifth shutout of the season. Sciancalepore's stellar play was critical in maintaining Rider's lead, making several key saves to thwart Merrimack's attempts at a comeback. With this performance, Sciancalepore tied the school record for most career shutouts, matching the mark set by former standout Bethany-May Howard with an impressive total of 20.
Quotes and Notes
"It was good to score first again and be able to hold on to the lead and get 3 points. We'll look to build off the positive result in the upcoming week"
– Rider Head Coach Drayson Hounsome
- This was the first-ever meeting between these two all-time.
- The Warriors are now 3-4-1 in the MAAC.
- Sciancalepore,
Jordyn Allen,
Genevieve Ryan, and
Bethie Morgan, all played the full 90 minutes.
Broncs by the Numbers
- Vala Sigurjónsdóttir had three shots in the contest.
- Menzing had three shots on goal with two going into the net.
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Courtney Carter contributed a shot in the game.
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Ava DeGeorge recorded an assist, bringing her assist count to four on the year.
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Tess Ferrie recorded her fourth goal of the season.
- Sciancalepore racked up five saves on the afternoon.
Up Next
The Broncs return home to take on Iona on Oct. 15 on Ben Cohen Field.
Kickoff set for 7 p.m.
