LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ – The Rider women's soccer team faced a challenging night on Wednesday, falling 4-1 to Iona in a crucial MAAC clash. Despite a strong effort on the field, the Broncs could not overcome the Gaels' early momentum and key plays that dictated the match. The Broncs fall to 2-8-3 on the season. 

Iona set the tone right from the start, quickly capitalizing on their offensive opportunities. The Gaels scored two goals within the first 11 minutes, putting the Broncs in an early 2-0 hole. Rider struggled to find their rhythm during those opening minutes, as Iona's pressure kept the Broncs' defense on its heels.

However, the Broncs managed to respond just minutes after the Gaels' second goal. Ava DeGeorge found the back of the net in the 13th minute, converting a free kick into her first collegiate goal. The strike gave the Broncs a much-needed boost, bringing the game to 2-1.

As the half wore on, Rider pushed forward, searching for an equalizer. They generated several scoring opportunities, outshooting the Gaels 18-12 throughout the match. Despite this, Iona's defense and goalkeeper stood firm, keeping the Broncs' attempts at bay. In a pivotal moment just before halftime, Iona managed to score in the last seconds, taking a 3-1 lead into the break.

The second half saw the Broncs pressing hard to close the gap, with their offense continuing to apply pressure. However, Iona's defense remained resilient, and Rider struggled to turn their shots into goals. In the 74th minute, Iona extended their lead further with a penalty kick, making it 4-1 and effectively sealing the game.

Quotes and Notes
"Extremely disappointing. Goals change games and there's moments in the game where we just shouldn't be giving up those goals. Defensively we were really weak today and that's the disappointment. We have to try and learn from this game and move forward so we can be better on Saturday." – Rider Head Coach Drayson Hounsome 

- The Broncs and Gaels are now 14-10-4 in all-time series history
- The Gaels are now 3-4-1 in the MAAC.
- Sciancalepore and Bethie Morgan played the full 90 minutes.

Broncs by the Numbers
- Tess Ferrie led the Broncs with four shots, including two shots on goal
- Ava Ferrie, Courtney Carter, Vala Sigurjónsdóttir, Margret Fridriksson, and Noa Menzing each recorded two shots in the contest.
- Logan Racine contributed a shot on the night. 
- Sciancalepore racked up four saves.

Up Next
The Broncs are next in action Saturday, Oct. 19 for senior day against Siena on Ben Cohen Field.
Kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m.