DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. — Powered by the game-winning goal in the 4th minute from freshman Gracie DiPalo (Manorville, N.Y./Eastport South Manor), the No. 13 Mercy University Women's Soccer Team earned a 1-0 win over regionally-ranked ECC foe Daemen University on Saturday afternoon at Mercy Field.
The Mavericks (10-0-1, 2-0-1 ECC) continue their best start in program history and match their win total from last year. Mercy improves to 8-0 all-time at home against the Wildcats (8-3, 3-1 ECC).
Mercy took an early lead against Daemen with a goal by DiPalo in the 4th minute, setting the tone for the first half. The Mavericks maintained offensive pressure, generating six shots and earning three corner kicks, though goalkeeper Becca Schultz of Daemen thwarted multiple attempts. The Wildcats struggled to find rhythm, managing only two shots, as Mercy closed the half up 1-0.
Mercy began the second half with a strong offensive push, but Daemen's goalkeeper consistently thwarted their efforts. Sophomore Hailey Metzger (Levittown, N.Y./MacArthur) tested Schultz multiple times, with notable saves occurring in the 45th, 53rd, and 55th minutes. Graduate student Madison Rosa (Dublin, Calif./Dublin) also pressured the Daemen defense, forcing Schultz to make another critical save in the 60th minute. Despite Mercy's continued offensive barrage, with senior Ancksu Dixon's (Freeport, N.Y./Freeport) final attempt saved in the 90th minute, the half ended scoreless. The game concluded with Mercy maintaining its one-goal lead from the first half, securing the win.
Sophomore Anneliese Becker (Stafford, Va./Mountain View) recorded a shutout in goal by not allowing any goals on five shots faced. DiPalo scored the game-winning goal on her only shot on goal, adding her fourth goal and third game-winner of the season. Dixon led the team in shots with five, including two on target. Rosa took two shots, both of which were on goal.
Becca Schultz played a key role for the Wildcats, recording 10 saves in the match. Her efforts in goal included eight saves in the second half, showcasing strong defensive capabilities. Kaitlyn Wright made a notable contribution on offense with one shot attempted. Macayla Hansen, positioned in midfield, also added one shot to the team's tally.
Mercy held a 16-5 edge in shots, an 11-0 edge in shots on goal and a 5-2 edge in corner kicks.
Looking ahead, Mercy prepares to host Southern New Hampshire University on October 15. The game is set to take place at 2:30 p.m. in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.
