EWING, N.J. – In the New Jersey Athletic Conference semifinals, the 8^th ranked College of New Jersey women's soccer team defeated Montclair State University by a final score of 1-0. The win propels the Lions into the conference championship game in which they will take on Rowan University on Nov. 3.

TCNJ (12-1-1) had the first opportunity nine minutes in, as Nikki Butler sent a header from in close that sailed just high. Early on it was an evenly matched game, and both side's defense limited the other team's chances. The Lions had another look in the 37^th minute when Ally Weaver launched a shot from 25 yards out, however it was denied by Red Hawk keeper Lindsey Freewalt.

After the first half ended scoreless, the Red Hawks (10-4-5) had an opportunity to jump in front five minutes into the second stanza. Emily Beenders ripped a shot from 20 yards out that was denied by Lion keeper Nicole DiPasquale.

The Lions put one on the board three minutes later. Randi Smith sent a beautiful cross from the right sideline that found Butler, and Butler punched in a header surrounded by Red Hawks to make it 1-0 TCNJ. The goal was the seventh on Butler's freshman season.

That goal turned out to be all the ironclad TCNJ defense needed. The back line of Jen McGrogan, Faith Eichenour, Nora Burdge, and Alexandra Ryan stifled the Red Hawk attack to hold onto the victory.

The Lions held a 14-4 lead in shots on the night as well as a 6-1 edge in corner kicks.

Next up will be the NJAC Championship game at home on Saturday, Nov. 3 against Rowan. Game time will be at 6:00 p.m. in Lions Stadium.