Freshman goalkeeper Sofia Kerrigan came up big late Thursday night, making two saves in the final five minutes to help Cornell women’s soccer preserve a scoreless draw against Colgate at Beyer-Small ’76 Field.
Kerrigan recorded four saves overall, with two in each half, as Cornell moved to 2-2-1 on the season. Colgate, meanwhile, settled for its second consecutive 0-0 result and fell to 1-3-2.
Cornell created the first quality chance in the 12th minute when senior forward Alanna Colbert sent a shot toward the bottom-left corner, but Colgate goalkeeper Ella Poppinga made the stop. The Raiders responded with a pair of opportunities moments later, although both attempts missed the target.
Kerrigan made her first save in the 23rd minute, denying Lydia Thornton from near the top of the penalty area. Ivy Tolbert then forced another save from Poppinga in the 35th minute.
The Raiders nearly broke through just before halftime when Darby Campbell’s shot following a dangerous corner kick was turned aside by Kerrigan.
Cornell’s defense remained steady throughout the second half, with Jane Offit, Amanda Polyniak and freshman Camryn Savig each playing all 90 minutes. Kerrigan then took over late, making diving saves in the 86th and 87th minutes to keep Colgate off the scoreboard.
The Big Red generated its best offensive stretch after halftime, with Lauren DiPierri putting both of her second-half shots on target in the 71st and 76th minutes. Poppinga stopped both attempts to preserve her own clean sheet.
Colgate finished with a 14-8 advantage in shots and led 4-2 in corner kicks, while both teams recorded four shots on goal.
Cornell will continue its four-match road trip Sunday, September 6, against Kent State. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Zoeller Field at Dix Stadium.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.