HAVERFORD, Pa. – The TCNJ Women's Soccer team experienced a tough 1-0 season opener loss against No. 7 William Smith at the Haverford College Kick Off Classic on Saturday.

Kicking off the season against a Top-10 Nationally ranked opponent clearly didn't faze the Lions, who controlled the game by holding a major 19-to-13 advantage in shots, as well as a lopsided 7-to-1 difference in corner kicks. However, a lone score by the Herons proved to be the difference in the match. This game marks the start of the Danny Blank era in TCNJ Women's Soccer.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• The Lions started out the game aggressive, with seven of their ten first half shot attempts and all four corner kicks coming within the first 26 minutes of the half.
• However, the Herons would strike in the 42nd minute with the lone goal of the game when Maggie Speckhart was assisted by Emma Kirts.
• TCNJ's Victoria D'Imperio and Allie O'Keefe put up solid shot attempts in the 55th and 68th minutes of the game, but both shots were saved by William Smith's goalie.
• The Lions would make a final push to score the equalizer in the 80th and 81st minutes with three consecutive shot attempts from Sophie Viera, Emma Pascarella and D'Imperio.

STANDOUT LIONS

• Getting the start in her collegiate debut, freshman goalie Bella Norman made an immediate impact with seven big saves to help keep the Lions in the game.
• Junior Victoria D'Imperio finished with a team-high five shots and three shots on goal.
• Senior Sophie Vieira opened up her season with three shots, one of which arriving on goal.
• Super Senior Emma Pascarella and junior Allie O'Keefe each finish with two shots and one on goal apiece.

UP NEXT
The Lions look to bounce back tomorrow by concluding their appearance at the Haverford College Kick Off Classic with a matchup against Haverford at noon.