On Wed. Oct. 11, the New Haven women’s soccer team faced off against Molloy University looking to snap their five-game losing streak. Both teams looked to play with a lead and go ahead early, but the Chargers were unable to hold off Molloy’s attack as they stretched their losing streak to six games with a 4-1 loss. It was an offensive game on both sides as the Lions outshot New Haven 20-15 for the game.
New Haven’s aggressive play in the opening minutes of the game led to quality scoring chances with three corner kicks in the first ten minutes, but were unable to get anything past Molloy goalkeeper Shannon Kilian. Forward Caitlyn Toom had the Chargers best chance to score early with a shot to the top left of the net that was stopped by Kilian.
The first half unfolded in a tightly contested manner, with both sides displaying commendable defensive efforts. However, Molloy broke through in the 36th minute with a goal by forward Olivia Ingenito. This early breakthrough set the tone for Ingenito’s performance, finishing the game with a hat trick, displaying remarkable precision and finesse.
New Haven goalkeeper Caitlin Daley kept her team in the game in the first half with nine saves. Her presence between the posts provided a crucial anchor for the Chargers, even in the face of relentless attacks from the Lions.
The halftime break brought a shift in momentum, as the Lions added to their lead with Ingenito’s second goal of the game. Just two minutes later, forward Caitlin Kennedy added to the tally with a penalty kick in the 49th minute after a foul by defender Caroline Ennis. The Chargers found themselves on the back foot, yet their spirit remained unbroken.
In a testament to their resilience, New Haven orchestrated a swift response. Forward Macy Litalien, with a stroke of brilliance, found the back of the net in the 51st minute to make it a 3-1 game. The Chargers offensive attack was finally able to push through as defender Janayah Body, who made her first appearance in the second half, was able to disrupt Molloy’s offense and generate a quality scoring chance for her team.
Ingenito completed her hat trick with a third goal in the 61st minute that snuck past Daley and gave them a three-goal lead. Her five shots on goal were a huge part of Molloy’s offense as the Chargers had no answer for their relentless opportunities as they came away with a big 4-1 win over New Haven.
The Chargers will be looking to end their losing streak this Sunday, Oct. 15 as they take on the Assumption Greyhounds in Worcester, Mass. who are currently coming off 2 back-to-back ties. For more information head to NewHavenChargers.com.
