After a close loss against Marist University, the Chargers hosted the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Lowell River Hawks but fell short, 5-1.
The River Hawks quickly applied offensive pressure in the first half with two goals scored in the first seven minutes of play. After New Haven’s goalkeeper Caitlin Daley denied her first shot, UMass’ Nora Belin scored two consecutive goals, with the second assisted by Kiera Fitzpatrick. New Haven’s defense was challenged as the River Hawks continued to fire an aggressive offense and finished the first half with 26 shot attempts. Daley stood tall with seven saves in the first period before Nuala Rogers scored UMass’ third goal off an assist from Kirti Craig. The Chargers were unable to find any offensive openings and entered halftime with a 3-0 deficit against the River Hawks.
In the second half, the River Hawks came out strong again, putting Daley and the Chargers’ defense at test. UMass made four early attempts at goal, all saved by Daley before the Chargers were able to find a breakthrough. Emma Mitchell put New Haven on the board and decreased the deficit to 3-1. Daley’s defense was unstoppable at goal until Gaby Eckroth scored the final goals of the match and secured the 5-1 win for the River Hawks. Molly Heras and Racheal Boudreau both made attempts for New Haven but were unsuccessful. The Chargers had only four shots in the second period against the River Hawks 31 shots.
New Haven finished the match with four shot attempts, two of which were on goal. UMass Lowell countered with 57 shots, 26 attempted goals. The Chargers goalkeepers, Daley and Jordan Galica, combined for 21 total saves. Daley led with 19 and Galica had two. The River Hawks goalkeeper only had one save in 90 minutes. During the match, the Chargers had two corner kicks and committed eight fouls.
This is New Haven’s fifth consecutive loss of the season and puts them at an overall record of 0-5. The Chargers’ next kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday as they host the Stonehill College Skyhawks. The match will be held at Kathy Zolad Stadium. For more information, visit NewHavenChargers.com.
