Women’s Soccer Clipped by Villanova, 1-0

LEWISBURG, Pa. – The Bucknell women's soccer team was kept off the scoresheet for the first time this season, and Hannah Curtin's goal two minutes into the second half lifted Villanova to a 1-0 verdict on Sunday afternoon at Emmitt Field at Holmes Stadium.

Bucknell (1-4) defended well for most of the match, but a set piece in a dangerous area proved costly. After a foul just outside the left edge of the box, Amalia Cardo's service was redirected in by Curtin just in front of the goal.

The Bison went on the attack in search of the tying goal, and they had a golden opportunity to draw even in the 72nd minute when Riley Hayes' attempt was blocked down by the arm of a Villanova defender just inside the area. Hayes took the penalty kick, but after goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson committed early, the shot rose over the bar.

Ava Palladino put a shot on goal in the 78th minute after a nice build-up, but Dickinson was positioned well for the save on the near post. The Wildcats managed the last five minutes well, keeping the ball in the Bucknell half for most of the late stages.

It was the second straight year that the penalty spot played a role in the outcome of the Bucknell-Villanova matchup. Last year in Philadelphia, Bison goalkeeper Jess Benattar saved a second-half PK to preserve a 1-0 win.

Reese Dolan finished with three saves in her second collegiate start. Dickinson made two stops for Villanova, which has won three straight after opening the season with losses to Michigan and Wake Forest. Both teams attempted 10 shots, and Villanova led 5-2 in corner kicks. Hayes led all players in the match with four shots.

Bucknell hits the road for two matches next week. The Bison visit Saint Francis on Thursday and Pittsburgh next Sunday.

POSTGAME COMMENTS FROM COACH KELLY COOK:

Next Event

Team Stats

Riley Hayes

Gaby Parker

Katie Connell

Ava Palladino

Players Mentioned

Jess Benattar

Reese Dolan

Riley Hayes

Ava Palladino