Women’s Soccer Falls in Regular Season Finale

FITCHBURG — The Fitchburg State Falcons women's soccer team fell to the visiting Salem State Vikings 2-0 in Massachusetts Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) play on Saturday afternoon at Elliot Field. It was senior night for the green and gold, as they honored seniors Sammi Zina, Victoria Floeck, Ali Sheehan, and Nicole Hallett for their contributions to the team.

The Vikings set an aggressive tone early on in the 24^th meeting between the two squads. Minutes into the contest Salem State's junior Alison Ceila tallied a goal for the quick 1-0 lead.

Later in the half the Falcons matched the Vikings intensity with several scoring opportunities, junior Whitney Mansfield led the Falcons with two shots on net. The majority of the first half was endured in the Falcon territory making it difficult for the Green and Gold to execute offensively.

In the 31st minute, Salem State doubled their advantage when Katie Brown netted her 2^nd goal of the season off a rebounded shot to give the Vikings a 2-0 advantage going into the half.

A large majority of the second half was spent battling at midfield, as neither team could gain an edge. It was an aggressive defensive battle. Fitchburg State fought valiantly to the end, but were ultimately edged by the Vikings 2-0.

Salem State goalkeeper Amanda Backe notched her 4^th win of the season and stopped seven shots to preserve the shutout. Fitchburg State goaltender Alexandra Foster stopped 7-of-9 shots that came her way. Salem State outshot Fitchburg State 15 to 12 in the contest.

The Falcons are now preparing to play in the MASCAC Quarterfinals starting Tuesday, November 1^st.

Release courtesy of student reporters Shaina Cruel-Reynoso, Chiara Haendel

The Falcon Report