BY TYLER MILLIKEN //

Despite rainy weather conditions, the women’s soccer team picked up the victory in their home opener on Sunday defeating Thomas College, 1-0.

Fans from both schools showed on Sunday to cheer on their teams although it wasn’t the best day to watch a soccer game. Neither side complained about the forecast though as everyone seemed ready to compete at kickoff.

Immediately after the first whistle blew, the Colonels deployed an aggressive approach on offense that the Terriers couldn’t match. Curry’s chemistry was impressive as they continued to complete tough passes and dominate the time of possession.

Only 8 minutes into the first half, Curry was awarded a penalty shot when Captain Cassandra Grasso was fouled in the box. She capitalized on the opportunity and rocketed the ball past Terriers’ goalkeeper Kayla Gordon for her third goal of the short season.

As the game continued, Gordon’s day continued to get tougher. The Colonels took a total of 25 shots during both halves, creating havoc on her side of the field without much result. Gordon wasn’t overwhelmed by Curry’s pressure on offense as she consistently made saves slowing their momentum.

Curry didn’t slow its pacing down in the second half, as the team searched for another goal. Head coach Jason Tassinari wasn’t satisfied with the team’s offensive output after they were given numerous chances to increase their lead. 

“I think we played to the level of our opponent. Which is not to say that Thomas College isn’t a good team, but I think we’re at a different level than they are,” said Tassinari.  “I just don’t feel as though our effort was at a level where it needs to be individually and collectively in this program.”

In the final minutes of the matchup, the physicality began to pick up on both sides. There was a lot of pushing and tripping happening, but it was ignored because of the tough field conditions. Eventually, the refs caught on to the situation and put an end to it as time expired.

The win puts the Colonels at 2-0 on the season while the Terriers have fallen to 0-2.

Colonels’ goalkeeper Kristen Buzzotta secured her first shutout of the season, collecting three saves on the day. It wasn’t the most exciting performance, but she continued to make plays whenever her number was called.

Grasso credited Curry’s defense for their win but was realistic about the team’s production on offense.

“Our defense stepped up, and we kept most of the game in our half. Even though it was only 1-0, it should’ve been a game where we scored a little more,” Grasso noted. “We need to step it up.”

The Colonels return to action on Wednesday, Sept. 6th against non-conference foe Wheaton College. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Walter M. Katz Field.