Keuka College women’s soccer could not overcome a three-goal first half Tuesday night, as Alfred State held on for a 3-1 victory over the Wolves at the Jephson Community Athletic Complex.
The Pioneers controlled the opening stages and quickly put Keuka under pressure, forcing goalkeeper Payton Malec to make a save in the sixth minute. Alfred State broke through shortly before the six-minute mark and added another goal in the 23rd minute to build an early two-goal cushion.
Keuka looked to answer with a corner kick in the 34th minute, but Alfred State struck again just over a minute later to take a 3-0 advantage into halftime.
The Wolves came out with considerably more urgency after the break. Anna Leone registered an attempt less than four minutes into the second half before Delaney Goodenow nearly found the net in the 51st minute, hitting the right post.
Goodenow stayed with the play, however, and quickly finished the rebound to put Keuka on the board. The goal was her second of the season and established a new career high.
Keuka continued pressing for another goal, with Ava Watt, Leone and first-year Bailey Cook each putting shots on target. The Wolves also earned four corner kicks during the second half and outshot Alfred State 9-3 over the final 45 minutes.
Despite the sustained pressure, Keuka could not find another breakthrough. Both teams finished with 13 shots, while the Wolves held a 6-2 advantage in corner kicks.
Keuka dropped to 2-2 all-time against Alfred State.
The Wolves return to action Saturday, September 12, when they host Russell Sage at 3 p.m. in their Empire 8 opener.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.