Women's Soccer Uses Strong Second Half To Defeat Cross-Town Rival WPI, 2-0

Worcester, MA --- Senior Christina Vernaci (Saugus, MA) snapped a scoreless tie in the 50th minute to help lead Worcester State to a 2-0 triumph over WPI in non-conference women's soccer action this evening at Coughlin Field.

With the win the Lancers even out to 2-2-1 while the Engineers slip to 1-4 on the young season.

Vernaci put the Blue and Gold on top when she took feed from sophomore Brianne Beckman (Lakeville, MA). Beckman launched the pass from just outside the box to Vernaci who dribbled in and scored her first career goal.

Beckman added her team-leading fourth helper of the season when she dished the ball to freshman Cassie Giardina (Pittsfield, MA) right off of a corner kick in the 81st minute for her first collegiate tally.

WPI's best chance to score came at the beginning of the second stanza in the 48th minute when sophomore Theresa Renna (Clark, NJ) beat the defense with a dribble down the sideline, but her bid went to the left of the net. 

Worcester State goalkeeper Angiezaka Sychtysz (Warren, MA) notched her first shutout of the season and fifth of her career as she was not called upon to make a save.

Engineer net minder Maddie Willer (Penfield, NY) was outstanding as she turned aside 10 of the 12 shots she saw on net, including nine in the second half.

The Lancers dominated action for a majority of the game, outshooting the visitors, 25-3 (18-2 second half), and holding an 8-0 edge in corners.

Both teams open up conference play at home on Saturday.  The Lancers matchup against MASCAC foe MCLA for a 3 o'clock tilt while the Engineers entertain regionally-ranked Wheaton at 1 PM.    

Game Release by – Jim Sarkisian, Sports Information Intern