Elizardo records first-career shutout, helping Bulldogs to 1-0 victory over Pioneers

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – As the result of a goal scored by Emily Perryman (Lebanon, N.H.) and the first-career shutout by Marissa Elizardo (North Wales, Pa.), the Bryant University field hockey team defeated Sacred Heart, 1-0, on Sunday afternoon.

In the 16th minute of play, the Bulldogs (3-12, 1-2 MAAC) capitalized on a penalty corner opportunity. Junior Erin Karcher (Kennet Square, Pa.) inserted the ball for the Black and Gold, finding sophomore Anna Kennedy (Macungie, Pa.) at the top-right of the circle. Kennedy fired off the initial shot, pushing the ball wide right, but Perryman was there to get a stick on it, redirecting the ball into the back of the cage for the Bulldog score.

The Pioneers (2-11, 0-3 MAAC) made a push to respond late in the second half, applying more offensive pressure, but the Bulldogs' defensive unit responded with key stops, led by Mikayla Fitzmaurice (Skowhegan, Maine) and Samantha Yoder (Mount Joy, Pa.). Elizardo dominated the Bulldogs' cage, recording five saves, including two vital stops in the last two minutes of play, leading to her first-career shutout.

"Our defense played exceptional," said head coach Shaunessy Saucier. "Our forwards took a lot of shots and our passing game was on point."

The Black and Gold finished with 14 shots, led by junior Victoria Danby (Lancaster, Mass.) with four.

The Bulldogs return to action on Friday, Oct. 23, when they travel to take on Fairfield at 3 p.m.