PHILADELPHIA – The Saint Joseph's women's soccer team scored twice in the first half and held off VCU in the second as the Hawks earned a 2-1 Atlantic 10 Conference victory over the Rams on Saturday at Sweeney Field.
A historic victory, it was the 200th win for head coach
Jess Mannella with St. Joe's.
HOW IT HAPPENED
- Saint Joseph's controlled the opening half, putting eight shots on goal while limiting VCU to one shot on target. The Hawks broke through in the 37th minute when Valentina Nardone delivered an Olimpico in the 37th minute.
- The Hawks doubled their advantage just before halftime. In the 44th minute, Taryn Kozak dribbled down the left side. She sent the ball into the box to Kerri Jackson, who touched it over to Chelsea Leal. The sophomore buried the shot for a 2-0 advantage.
- VCU cut the deficit in half early in the second period, but the Saint Joseph's defense held firm the rest of the way. Lauren Lebo made three saves, including two in the second half, to preserve the victory.
BY THE NUMBERS
- The goal was Nardone's fourth of the season. Leal netted her goal of the year.
- It was Jackson's second assist of the season.
- The helper was Kozak's first career point.
UP NEXT
The Hawks face a tough opponent, traveling to Saint Louis on Thursday, October 8. Kickoff from the Billiken Sports Complex is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. eastern time.
