William Smith soccer continued its strong run Saturday, scoring twice in the first half to defeat Skidmore 2-1 in Liberty League play at Cozzens Field.
The Herons earned their fifth consecutive victory, improving to 9-3 overall and a perfect 5-0 in conference competition. Skidmore fell to 4-4-2 overall and 1-3-1 in league play.
Junior Grace Metzler and first-year Grace Sudbay scored for William Smith, while senior goalkeeper Antonia Goerke recorded two saves.
After applying pressure throughout the opening half, the Herons broke through in the 33rd minute. Metzler capitalized on a misplayed back pass, taking possession near the goal and sending the ball across the line for her fourth goal of the season.
William Smith doubled its advantage less than two minutes later. Sudbay collected a pass from Kristin Middaugh before driving toward the penalty area and curling a left-footed shot past Skidmore goalkeeper Sophia Sayers. First-year Lea Bryant helped set up the scoring play with her work in midfield.
Hobart soccer shuts out Skidmore The Herons continued creating opportunities after halftime. Middaugh struck the right post while looking for a third goal, and Sayers made several more saves to keep Skidmore within reach.
The Thoroughbreds cut into the deficit in the 77th minute when Abby Lewis finished a cross from Olivia Chandler for her fourth goal of the season. Goerke had previously denied Lewis on a breakaway opportunity, helping William Smith preserve its lead.
William Smith finished with a commanding 24-8 advantage in shots and put nine attempts on goal. Sayers made seven saves for Skidmore.
The Herons return to Cozzens Field Saturday, October 17, to host ninth-ranked Vassar. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
