DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. — Powered by the game-winning goal in the 46th minute from freshman Casey Szczotka (Mattituck, N.Y./Mattituck), off an assist from sophomore Hailey Metzger (Levittown, N.Y./MacArthur), and five saves from sophomore Anneliese Becker (Stafford, Va./Mountain View), the No. 13 Mercy University Women's Soccer Team earned a 1-0 win over Pace University on Tuesday afternoon at Mercy Field.

The Mavericks (9-0-1) remain unbeaten and continue their best start in program history. Mercy defeats the Setters (4-5) for the first time since 2014.

The match opened with both teams showing strong defensive efforts. Senior Ancksu Dixon (Freeport, N.Y./Freeport) took an early shot at 2:02, though it went high, while Becker made several key saves, including stopping Allison Carr's attempt at 3:44 and Juliana Procopio's shot at 36:28. Pace had multiple opportunities from corner kicks, yet were held scoreless. Meanwhile, graduate student Madison Rosa (Dublin, Calif./Dublin) tested Pace's goalkeeper Anna Fiore with shots at 21:22 and 24:17, both saved, maintaining a 0-0 draw at the end of the first half.

Mercy secured their victory with a decisive goal early in the second half. Szczotka scored in the 46th minute, assisted by Metzger following a corner kick. Mercy maintained offensive pressure throughout, with Metzger and teammates taking multiple shots, including saves by Fiore. Pace's attempts to equalize included a close call from Meredith Klosek, whose shot hit the crossbar in the 83rd minute, but Mercy's defense held firm to preserve the win.

Szczotka recorded her second goal of the season, which also served as the game-winning goal. Becker contributed significantly to the team's defensive efforts by making five saves and securing a shutout. Becker recorded her 100th career save, becoming the eighth goalie in program history to record 100 career saves. Rosa was active on the offensive end, leading the team with four shots, three of which were on goal. Metzger added to the team's offensive play by providing her team-leading sixth assist and taking three shots, one of which was on target.

Fiore led the Setters with eight saves, allowing only one goal despite facing 15 shots. Carr made a significant attacking contribution with two shots on goal from her two attempts. Meanwhile, Procopio and Klosek each recorded three shots, with Procopio managing one shot on goal. Andrea Flores also added to the offensive effort with two shots, one of which was on goal.

Mercy held a 15-13 edge in shots and a 9-6 edge in shots on goal. Pace held a 5-4 edge in corner kicks.

The next challenge for Mercy comes as they host Daemen University (N.Y.) on October 11. The match is set to begin at 2:30 p.m. in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.