ALBANY, NY — The University at Albany women’s soccer team started its season with an impressive 3-1 victory over LIU, fueled by a dominant second-half performance at Casey Stadium.
LIU came out strong and nearly scored in the first minute, but their early goal was disallowed for offside. The Sharks took the lead in the twenty-first minute when Gina Proviano fired a shot from 13 yards out to give LIU a 1-0 lead.
UAlbany responded with pressure and came close to equalizing in the 33rd minute when Madison Hnis hit the crossbar with a corner kick. Goalkeeper Emily Dorfman kept UAlbany in the game with a crucial save shortly after. LIU missed another chance to extend the lead in the 43rd minute, hitting the crossbar again.
After trailing at halftime, the Great Danes came back on top in the second half. Sydney Kofton equalized in the 49th minute with a header off a perfect cross from Madison Wisheart. Two minutes later, Hailey Hnis converted a stunning free kick from nearly 30 yards out to give UAlbany a 2-1 lead.
The momentum stayed with UAlbany when Madison Hnis found Casey Stowell in the 64th minute for her first collegiate goal to make it 3-1. LIU’s frustration boiled over in the 83rd minute when Matiana Valdez received a red card, reducing the Sharks to 10 players.
UAlbany had more shots on goal than LIU (18-13), with 12 shots on goal while LIU fired just three. The Great Danes’ relentless attack and strong defense secured the win in their season opener.
UAlbany will next host Monmouth on Thursday, August 22nd at 7 p.m. at Casey Stadium.
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