No. 16 William Smith soccer broke through after halftime and pulled away for a 2-0 victory over Geneseo on Wednesday afternoon at College Stadium.
BILLS GAME WEEK: Buffalo opens new Highmark Stadium Thursday night against Lions (preview) The win moved the Herons to 4-1-0 on the season, while Geneseo dropped to 2-2-1. William Smith controlled much of the match offensively, finishing with a 14-3 advantage in shots and an 8-1 edge in shots during the second half.
After neither team could find the net during the opening 45 minutes, William Smith finally opened the scoring in the 65th minute. Senior Miranda DeMura converted a penalty kick, sending her attempt into the right side of the goal for her first goal of the season.
The Herons added another goal just seven minutes later. Junior Aleena Solano received a pass from sophomore Addison Stockwin near the top of the 18-yard box before lifting a shot into the upper-left corner. Junior Lily Pryzwansky also received an assist on the play, giving William Smith some breathing room with just under 20 minutes remaining.
William Smith created several opportunities before taking the lead. Kristin Middaugh had an early attempt stopped by Geneseo goalkeeper Emily McLouth, while Sofia Carney and Hannah Goodness also tested the Knights goalkeeper during the first half.
Geneseo nearly found an answer just before halftime, but Ashley Pawelczyk’s attempt was turned away by William Smith senior goalkeeper Antonia Goerke.
Carney came close again early in the second half, but McLouth made a save over the crossbar. First-year Lea Bryant also had a chance to add a third goal in the 81st minute, but McLouth stopped her attempt.
Goerke finished with two saves to record the shutout, while McLouth made six saves for Geneseo. William Smith also held a 9-3 advantage in corner kicks.
The Herons return to action Saturday, September 19, at New Paltz. The non-conference match begins at 1 p.m. and starts a six-game road trip.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.