Bulldogs prevail in 1-0 thriller

Rachael Ivanicki notches first goal of 2012 in women's soccer 1-0 victory

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant University women's soccer team defeated Holy Cross, 1-0, in a thrilling match at Sutton Field on Thursday afternoon.

In what seemed like déjà vu from a year ago, the Bulldogs (3-1) pulled out a one goal victory over the Crusaders, avenging the 1-0 loss from last September in Worcester.

From the get go, Bryant controlled the pace of game, with much of the action occurring the Crusaders third of the pitch. The Bulldogs had four early corners (12 total for the game) and multiple scoring opportunities, however, despite outshooting their opponent 9-3 in the half, they were unable to capitalize.

Entering the second half of play, both teams had their chances early on. Crusader sophomore Gina Righini had two shots on goal in the second period, but was unable to put one away. Bryant freshman Sarah Shucker (Nanuet, N.Y.) also had multiple looks on net without tallying a score.

In the 84th minute, freshman Allison DeBenedictis (Norwell, Mass.) stepped up to attempt the fourth and final corner of the half for the Bulldogs. DeBenedictis finessed a beautiful ball into the box creating a scramble for the ball. Eventually, freshman Rachael Ivanicki (Colts Neck, N.J.) gained control of the ball and flicked it past the keeper for the lone score of the game.

"Soccer is the type of game where you don't always get rewarded for carrying the play, getting the most shots or in this case the most corner kicks," said head coach Chris Flint. "And when you get a dozen corners in a game, you can only hope that you can convert on one of them, and fortunately on that one Rachael was there to put it away."

In her first shutout of 2012, Bryant junior goalkeeper Lauren Viverito (Dayton, N.J.) had four saves, two in each half. Holy Cross netminder Carly McCabe also had four saves in the game, letting in the single goal in the 84th minute.

The Bulldogs will head to cross-state rival Rhode Island where they will play the Rams in Kingston on Sunday (1 p.m.). This will mark the first of three road games for Bryant before returning to action back home on Sept. 14 to play Delaware St.

For all the latest information on Bryant University women's soccer, visit BryantBulldogs.com