The Cornell women’s soccer team was unable to protect a first-half lead Saturday afternoon, playing Penn to a 1-1 draw at Berman Field. The Big Red moved to 5-6-3 overall and 1-3-1 in Ivy League play, while the Quakers stand at 6-5-3 and 1-2-2.
Senior Alanna Colbert scored Cornell’s lone goal, but Penn answered in the second half to prevent the Big Red from securing a conference victory.
Cornell controlled much of the opening half, generating several scoring opportunities and earning eight corner kicks.
The Big Red broke through in the 17th minute when Ella Koschineg delivered a free kick into the penalty area.
Colbert’s initial header was stopped by Penn goalkeeper Josephine Hensley, but she converted the rebound for her fourth goal of the season.
Penn nearly equalized before halftime when Grace Saxton struck the crossbar, but Cornell goalkeeper Sofia Kerrigan preserved the lead with a save moments later.
The Quakers increased their offensive pressure after halftime and tied the match in the 57th minute.
Saxton finished a cross from Mia Fuss for her first goal of the season, bringing Penn level.
Cornell nearly reclaimed the lead in the 70th minute when Emily Gibbons struck both posts, but the ball stayed out.
Penn finished with a 16-10 advantage in shots, while Cornell held a 10-3 edge in corner kicks.
Kerrigan recorded five saves for the Big Red, while Hensley finished with three.
Cornell returns to action Saturday, October 31, traveling to face Brown in its final regular-season road match. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
