On Saturday, the Chargers faced off against the Saint Michael’s College Purple Knights in a match at Duffy Field. The game was close all throughout the match, until the second half where both teams were able to score a goal to match each other resulting in a 1-1 tie.
The match began with both teams displaying strong defense. New Haven and Saint Michael’s struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. The Chargers managed four shots, but only one was on target. Meanwhile, the Purple Knights recorded six shots, with three requiring the attention of Chargers goal-keeper Caitlin Daley. Daley was crucial in maintaining a scoreless first half, making key saves keeping the Chargers in this match.
As the teams headed into halftime, the tension in the air was clear. Both coaching staffs emphasized the importance of finding a breakthrough in the second half, knowing it was still a tied game, and it was far from over.
In the second half there was a huge shift in momentum. In the 67th minute, Saint Michael’s broke the ice when Claire Williams found the back of the net with a great shot, assisted by Christiana Cummings. The Purple Knights erupted in celebration, as they took a 1-0 lead and put the pressure right back on the Chargers to respond quickly.
With their backs against the wall, the Chargers kept up their scoring efforts. Key players such as Emma Mitchell, Antonia Henano, and Riley Drosopoulos began to connect more effectively, to create scoring opportunities. The Chargers pushed forward and tested the Purple Knights’ defense as they searched for the equalizing goal.
After a series of hyper aggressive offensive plays, the Chargers finally broke through. Mitchell shot the ball, the fans went silent, and the ball found the back corner of the net, leveling the score at 1-1. The goal was assisted by Drosopoulos, who found Mitchell with precision, and allowed her to finish with confidence. The crowd erupted in cheers as the players celebrated this crucial moment, which showcased the spirit of the Chargers even while we were away.
New Haven committed seven fouls to Saint Michael’s three, reflecting the game’s intensity, which led to one yellow card for the Chargers. Despite the physical challenges, New Haven demonstrated resilience, equalizing in a hard-fought comeback that could be a turning point in their season.
After the tie against Saint Michael’s, New Haven has an overall record of 3-6-3 and 0-3-3 in conference play. As they prepare for their next non-conference match against the College of Staten Island on October 16 at 6 p.m. on Kathy Zolad Stadium, a victory would boost both their morale going forward in the season.
To follow the journey of the Chargers women soccer team, check out NewHavenChargers.com.
