HENNIKER, N.H. – The Norwich University women's soccer team controlled the attacking end throughout Wednesday afternoon's Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) matchup, but the Cadets were unable to find the back of the net in a 0-0 draw against New England College at Don Melander Field.
Norwich generated consistent pressure from the opening whistle, finishing with a commanding 29-5 advantage in total shots and a 15-2 edge in shots on goal. The Cadets also earned eight corners compared to just one for the Pilgrims, but New England College goalkeeper made 14 saves to keep Norwich off the scoreboard.
The Cadets created several quality opportunities in the opening half, with sophomore Heidi Smith (Sammamish, Wash.) testing the Pilgrims goalie early. Junior Lily Briggs (Fair Haven, Vt.) followed with multiple attempts on target, while sophomore Maddy Perry (Fair Haven, Vt.) nearly broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, putting a shot off the post before Norwich continued to press forward.
Freshman Mya Sanders (Northfield, Vt.) also forced a save with a header late in the first half as Norwich carried its attacking momentum into the break.
The Cadets picked up where they left off after halftime, earning a series of corners in the opening minutes of the second half while continuing to challenge the Pilgrims' defense. Freshman Sophie Guarriello (Barre, Vt.) and junior Colby Magoon (Loudon, N.H.) generated additional opportunities, while Briggs and Smith continued to test the New England College back line.
Norwich's pressure intensified in the closing stages. Guarriello put another attempt on target in the 80th minute before forcing a defensive save in the 84th minute, but the Pilgrims managed to keep the Cadets off the scoresheet through the final whistle.
Defensively, freshman goalkeeper Sophie Olivo (Sanford, Maine) recorded two saves to secure the shutout for Norwich, limiting New England College to just five shots and two attempts on target. A testament to the disciplined and organized Cadet backline this year led by Senior centerback Beatrice Lake (Brookfield, Vt.).
The draw moves Norwich to 7-4-2 overall and 3-4-2 in GNAC play as the Cadets continue their conference schedule at Dean College on Saturday.
