Women's Soccer Plays to 3-3 Draw in GNAC Opener at Norwich

NORTHFIELD, Vt. – The Rivier women's soccer team played to a 3-3 draw against Norwich on Saturday evening at Sabine Field in its first Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) matchup of the season. 

With the draw, the Raiders moved to 0-2-1 (0-0-1 GNAC) while the Cadets' record changed to 1-1-1 (0-0-1 GNAC). 

The Cadets had a strong opening to the contest, finding the back of the net in the 23rd minute. Four minutes later, the Raiders found the equalizer when senior midfielder Samantha Franks found herself alone at the back post and headed home her shot to bring the score to 1-1. 

Both teams continued to trade opportunities with Norwich converting before the halftime whistle to take a 2-1 lead into the break. 

The Raiders came out of the break firing on all cylinders, scoring just four minutes into the second half as senior forward Kaylee Magoon placed her shot into the top right corner after swift build-up play from sophomore Maya Leach and junior Emily Harper to bring the game level at two apiece. 

Rivier continued to tack on the pressure and was rewarded in the 70th minute as Harper rifled her shot from outside the box into the top of the nylon to give the Raiders their first lead. 

Norwich would find the back of the net in the 80th minute from a converted penalty kick to see the game out as a 3-3 draw. 

Senior goalkeeper Maya Puma recorded three saves in her second start of the campaign. 

The Raiders suit up under the lights for their home opener against non-conference opponent Mass. Maritime on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Joanne Merrill Field. Kick-off is set for 7:00 p.m.