MANCHESTER, N.H. — Powered by the game-winning goal in the 53rd minute from sophomore Hailey Metzger (Levittown, N.Y./MacArthur) and a game-high-tying three saves from sophomore Anneliese Becker (Stafford, Va./Mountain View), the No. 20 Mercy University Women's Soccer Team earned a 1-0 win at regionally-ranked Saint Anselm College on Saturday afternoon at Melucci Field.
The Mavericks (8-0-1) have won four games in a row and continue their best start in program history. Mercy defeats the Hawks (4-2-1) for the first time since 2016.
The first half between the Mavericks and the Hawks ended in a scoreless draw, with neither team able to capitalize on their opportunities. Senior Ancksu Dixon (Freeport, N.Y./Freeport) had an early shot saved by Samantha Swidorski at 9:17, while junior Ella Gallino (Middlebury, Conn./Pomperaug) and graduate student Madison Rosa (Dublin, Calif./Dublin) also attempted shots that went wide. Becker, guarding the net for Mercy, made a crucial save against Nina Muir's bottom-center shot at 27:42. Saint Anselm's Zarina Pinto had two attempts that missed the target, and a late offside call further stalled their offensive efforts.
Mercy secured a narrow victory over Saint Anselm with a single goal in the second half. Metzger broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, finding the back of the net to give Mercy a 1-0 lead. Becker was instrumental in preserving the lead, making a crucial save against a shot from Madison DiNapoli at 57:49. Saint Anselm attempted to equalize with several shots, including a close effort from Muir that struck the crossbar at 80:40, but they were unable to breach Mercy's defense, leaving the final score at 1-0 in favor of Mercy.
Metzger played a pivotal role for Mercy, scoring the game-winning goal and finishing with three shots, two of which were on target. Metzger now has a team-high-tying seven goals on the year. Becker recorded a shutout in goal, making three saves across 90 minutes to secure the victory. Dixon contributed offensively with three shots, including one on goal. Senior Emma Best (Farmingdale, N.Y./Farmingdale) added a shot on goal, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.
Muir led the Hawks with five shots, two of which were on target, highlighting her offensive contributions. Swidorski played a crucial role in goal, recording three saves across 75 minutes without conceding a goal. DiNapoli made the most of her single opportunity, directing her lone shot on goal, adding pressure to the opposing defense. Amelia Hohos allowed one goal in 14:46 minutes to take the loss.
Saint Anselm held a 16-11 edge in shots and Mercy held a 4-3 edge in shots on goal. Saint Anselm maintained a 4-1 edge in corner kicks.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host Pace University in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., on October 7. The match kicks off at 3 p.m.
