STATEN ISLAND, NY - The Rider University women's soccer team opened up the 2024 season with a 0-0 draw against the Wagner Seahawks on Thursday evening at Hameline Stadium. The Broncs created four potential game-winning chances in the final 10 minutes of play, but settle for the season-opening draw. 

The Seahawks had their fair share of quality looks in the second half, forcing Rider keeper Ellie Sciancalepore (Randolph, NJ/Randolph) to make three of her five saves in the final 45 minutes. Tess Ferrie had a pair of shots saved in the final 10 minutes, including one chance on a break down the right sideline. But her shot with a defender on her left hip was saved with 90 seconds remaining. Rider delivered extensive pressure in the second half of the match, producing six shots against the Seahawks.

In the final 40 seconds of the game, Emma Cordero's slide tackle near the top of the box prevented a potential game-winning score by the Seahawks.

Quotes and Notes 
"The nice thing about regularly playing a team is you know somewhat to expect and we saw that tonight. It was a really close game as always against Wagner. The intensity was good and a really hard-fought match. We learned a lot about the team tonight and can take a lot of positives from the game." – Rider Head Coach Drayson Hounsome
 
- The draw was the first between the two squads in matchup history. Rider now leads the series, 9-5-1. 
- Freshman Tess Ferrie led the team with three shots on the night. 
- Ellie Sciancalepore, Courtney Carter, and Bethie Morgan all played 90 minutes.

Broncs By the Numbers
- Seven Broncs made their Rider debuts including Tess Ferrie, Leah Marcell, Ava DeGeorge, Jordyn Allen, Taylor Mays, Annie Small, and Valgerður Sigurjónsdóttir.
- Valgerður Sigurjónsdóttir and Tess Ferrie had their first career shots on goal. 
- Broncs had six shots in the second half. 
- Ellie Sciancalepore posted her 16th career shutout with five saves. 

Up Next
The Broncs return to action Wednesday, August 21, when they travel to Dover, DE, to take on Delaware State. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.