September 2, 2012

Newton, MA - The Lasell College women's soccer team took their first loss of the season in the championship game of their inaugural kick-off classic, falling 2-1 to Elizabethtown College. 

The Lasers opened the scoring two minutes into the match, when Bridget Lynch beat Elizabethtown keeper Jess Manchak on a beautiful feed from Sam Peck. Both teams created some quality chances as the half progressed, but it was the visiting Blue Jays who struck next. Tricia Clarke executed a near perfect free kick, placing her ball in the top corner of the net from 30 yards out to send the two sides into the half tied at 1-1. 

Elizabethtown jumped in front 2-1 in the 68th minute on a Laura Wingert strike that just snuck in under the crossbar from distance. Lasell had opportunities to draw even in the final 20 minutes, most notably when a Jill Greaney strike from the left flank rang the cross bar, but the home side was unable to equalize.

Leah Pappalardo took the loss in net for Lasell despite making 9 saves, while Manchak picked up the win for the Blue Jays.

Lasell returns to the pitch on Tuesday September 4th when they travel to Coast Guard for a 7pm matchup under the lights.