USJ soccer drops opener, 1-0

MANSFIELD, Conn. – In its opening game of the season, the University of Saint Joseph soccer team came out on the short end of 1-0 score against Manhattanville College Friday at the 2nd Annual Warrior Classic hosted by Eastern Connecticut State University.

After a scoreless first half, Brittney Smith (Stratford, CT) scored just two minutes into the second half. Smith scored on a shot from inside the box assisted by freshman Christie DeMarco (Valley Stream, NY) to give her team the only goal of the game.

Just seconds later, Saint Joseph had an excellent chance to tie the game when USJ junior Patricia Nolan (Portland, CT) broke away from the defense but her shot went just over the crossbar. The Blue Jays had another great chance to tie the game in the 73rd minute when Nicole Mendelson (Southbury, CT) attempted a free kick. Her shot hit the crossbar and fell straight down before being recovered by keeper Grace Kraemer (Massapequa, NY).

Saint Joseph sophomore Ashley Hebert (Wolcott, CT) made fives saves in her first career appearance in goal.

The game marked the first match of any sport played under the University of Saint Joseph banner. The school had been known as Saint Joseph College since its founding in 1932 before a name change on June 8. 

USJ returns to action Saturday night, playing host Eastern Connecticut at 7 p.m.