Statistics
BIDDEFORD, Maine – The University of New England women's soccer team put up a pair of second-half goals to create a comfortable lead over Nichols, and eventually closed out a 3-1 Conference of New England victory on Saturday afternoon at Hazard Field.
Despite the best efforts of Nichols goalkeeper Isabella Dupret, who made five saves in the first half, the Nor'easters (6-2, 2-0 CNE) entered the break with a 1-0 lead courtesy of first-year
Jill Hodgson's 39th-minute tally. Fellow rookie
Ari Veneto scored her first career goal in the 73rd minute to double UNE's advantage
(Watch), and
Sydney Balotin found the back of the net in the 83rd. The Bison (1-7, 0-2) spoiled the Nor'easters' hopes of a shutout in the 86th minute when Cassie Rice scored on a free kick.
With the hosts dominating possession for much of the afternoon, UNE claimed a 13-1 advantage in shots on goal.
Hodgson's goal – the game's first – was her second of the season
(Watch). Balotin, a senior defender, scored for the third time in her career on her late-game rocket from more than 30 yards out
(Watch).
Karley Belisle picked up an assist on each of UNE's last two goals.
Saturday's triumph marked UNE's 13th straight win over Nichols, dating back to the 2011 season.
The Nor'easters will step away from CNE action on Tuesday, Sept. 23 when they host Bates for a 7 p.m. kickoff.
