NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The Iona College women’s soccer team was edged out by the visiting Siena Saints, 1-0. The Gaels have lost each of their last three games by one goal, eight times total on the season.
From the kickoff, the Saints applied the pressure on the Iona defense, maintaining a dominant amount of possession and attacking zone time. In the first half, the Maroon & Gold were outshot 10-2, and senior goalkeeper Taylor Rice made five saves to keep the score knotted at zero heading into the break.
Iona’s best chance to score in the opening half came in the closing moments when sophomore Charlotte Stuart put a hard shot on net, forcing Saints senior goalie Liz Rogan to make a save.
The Maroon & Gold fell behind in the 47th minute; Siena breached the Iona defense off a deflected ball that perfectly placed itself directly in front senior Allison Clark. Dribbling forward, the Bryn Mawr, PA native was able to raise her shot over the outstretched arms of Rice in what would eventually be the game-winner.
The possession battle began to turn around in the final 15 minutes; the Gaels began pushing all their players, looking for the equalizer. Stuart again forced the Siena defense to make a key team block, and then off a beautifully placed corner by freshman Mariana Jaramillo, senior Kim Marra came within a few feet of tying the game.
Siena outshot Iona 23-5 for the game, and had the edge in corner kick chances with five. Rice made eight saves in goal for the Maroon & Gold.
Iona will look to pick up their second conference win of the year this upcoming Wednesday, Oct. 21, when they host Saint Peters. Kickoff is set for 3:00 pm.