The Seton Hall women’s soccer team suffered a narrow defeat against Siena University, 1-0, in its first game of the season on Friday afternoon. As soon as the referee blew his whistle to signal the opening kick of the game, the Saints pressed forward in an attacking position. Seton Hall, unable to react in time, was not in position to head away the first cross of the game. Sienna capitalized on the kick directed from the left of the field and took the lead just 16 seconds into the game. Within the next ten minutes of game time, the Pirates aggressively kept their foot on the gas pedal, as they fired three shots on goal. Most notably, captain Siobhan McGovern’s shot could not escape the gloves of the opposing keeper and was blocked. Another standout performance for Seton Hall came from goalkeeper Anna MacLean. After conceding the early first half goal, MacLean rebounded from the setback and saved four of the nine shots that she faced. Midfielder Izzy Engel’s offseason development was also on full display. Despite not being fully reflected on the stat sheet, Engel had a formidable showing, as she totaled a couple of shots and one shot on goal. For the rest of the game, the Pirates played catch-up as they tried to remain level with Siena in terms of shots on goal, while also maintaining defensive shape after the early mishap. Many of Seton Hall's second half attacks were staunched by players in offside positions or on fouls upon losing possession. The momentum seemed to be in Siena’s favor, as the one-goal lead provided enough cushion to delegate decision making when the Saints had the ball in their own half. In the 89th minute, as the window for the Pirates to draw level grew smaller, forward Emma Ramsay drilled a shot on frame that struck against the post and ricocheted back into the field of play. The final whistle blew moments after, much to the dismay of the Pirates. The Seton Hall women’s soccer team will look to avenge its road defeat as they face-off against the Delaware Blue Hens on home turf. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 19, at Owen T. Carroll Field. Evando Thompson can be reached evando.thompson@student.shu.edu or on Twitter @Thompsev.
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